Heart Failure and Gum Disease

Posted by Sarah on August 03, 1999 at 12:01:58
I have periodontal disease and have cardiomyopathy.Does bacteria from this gum diseas cause cardiomyopathy? Should I let my cardiologist know about this gum disease since I have a leaky leave?I am embarassed to let anyone know about the periodontal disease so I have kept quiet about it.Thank you.

Posted by CCF CARDIO MD - CRC on August 03, 1999 at 13:50:37
It's nothing to be embarassed about.   Gum disease has not been found to have a link with cardiomyopathy although there are some theories about a link with heart blockages.  The only reason to let your cardiologist know is so he can make antibiotic recommendations prior to any dental work.
Information provided in the heart forum is for general purposes only.  Only your physician can provide specific diagnoses and therapies.  Please feel free to write back with additional questions.
If you would like to make an appointment at the Cleveland Clinic Heart Center, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE or inquire online by using the Heart Center website at www.ccf.org/heartcenter.  The Heart Center website contains a directory of the cardiology staff that can be used to select the physician best suited to address your cardiac problem.