If you are feeling out of breath, tired, or noticing your heart racing, it could be a sign of a heart condition that needs attention.i These symptoms may be linked to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a condition that can be diagnosed and managed by a doctor.
If you haven’t heard about HCM, you’re not alone. While it’s not widely known, HCM is the most common inherited heart disease, affecting 1 in 500 people in Canada.i
This website provides you with information about HCM, helping you understand the condition and its symptoms so you can make informed decisions about your health.
There are several symptoms linked to HCM. If you experience any of these symptoms, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have HCM, as many can be shared with other conditions. If you are concerned, it’s a good idea to see a doctor as an HCM diagnosis can only be made by a medical professional.
Shortness of breath
Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
Chest pain
Dizziness
Unexplained tiredness or fatigue
Fainting
HCM Explained
HCM is a disease that affects the structure and function of the heart and can lead to other serious health conditions.ii
HCM can be passed down through families, but not all cases are inherited. Learn more about HCM, including what it is and who may be at risk for developing the condition.
Disclaimer:
The experiences shared in the quotes on this website are based on the real journeys of patients living with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and authentically reflect their perspective. The names of the individuals featured have been changed to protect their privacy.
References:
i Cardiomyopathy UK, (2022). Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Factsheet. Available at: https://www.cardiomyopathy.org/sites/default/files/2022-02/Hypertrophic%20cardiomyopathy%20factsheet%20January%202022.pdf. Last Accessed April 2024.
*Canadian statistic is from the BMS Canada-approved symptom tracker.
ii CDC (2024). About Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM). Available at: Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/heart-disease-family-history/about/about-hypertrophic-cardiomyopathy-hcm-and-family-health-history-of-sudden-death.html
