cleaning chemicals

I have been told I have idiopathic cardiomyopathy and congestive heart failure. For many years I have been exposed to many cleaning chemicals, has this ever been known as a cause for this condition?

[CCF-M.D.-CRC]

Dear Jade,
There is no known link that I am aware of between cleaning chemicals and idiopathic cardiomyopathy.  It is thought that the majority of these are due to viruses.  Here is some more information about idiopathic cardiomyopathy.

Basically cardiomyopathy is a "weakness" of the heart muscle that can be due to ischemia (lack of blood flow - the most common), viral (more common in young people),  idiopathic (unknown cause but probably viral) and several rare conditions.  It is usually diagnosed by history and an echocardiogram.  Occasionally a heart muscle biopsy is performed.  It may not be easy to predict or diagnosis prior to the onset.

Symptoms are shortness of breath, swelling in the legs, chest discomfort and palpitations and increased fatigue.  Treatment is usually medical and in severe cases heart transplant.  About a third of patients get worse with some going on to transplant.  Another third stay the same and are managed well with medical therapy and the rest get better.  

Q: How common is Dialated Cardiomyopathy as a result of a virus?
A:  In young people it is probably the number one cause of cardiomyopathy.  In older people it is less common.

Q: Is it serious or no big deal?
A:  It is a serious condition and should be followed carefully.

Q: Should those of us that have it be concerned?
A: Concerned in regard to taking good care of yourself and following your doctor's advice.

A: How often should one (someone with cardiomyopathy)  have their EF checked?
Q: This will vary from doctor to doctor but generally every 6 months to a year.

Q: Does the EF% have anything to do with a person's energy level?
A: Someone with a decreased EF may feel more fatigued.

Q: What is the average life years expectancy of a person with Dialated Cardiomyopathy?
A: This will vary considerably depending upon the severity of the illness.  Some people may die within months to years and others  go on to have normal lifespans.

[tcollins]

Visit Jonsplace.org. It's a great support group for CHF and Cardiomyopathy. Good luck.