#dilated cardiomyopathy

[athletearrhythmia]

Two dilated ventricles

(Note: this is a more dark cardio post. Everything written was approved before posting, if the tone seems kinda mean it's not, I know the other subject well)

(Top image I'm on the right, bottom on the left)

Xykolich is one of the best cardiophile creators around right now, I'm sure you've seen videos of his remarkable heart. He has advanced dilated cardiomyopathy and recently gave me images of his mri study to compare to my own dilated ventricles.

His left ventricle is a whopping 80mm across, a full centimeter over my extremely large left ventricle and nearly twice the size of an average person's. However while my heart is positively adapted to exercise, his heart is scarred and inefficient. You can see a ring of scar tissue in his short axis image representing the dead portion of his heart that can't contract, which is what caused his heart to balloon as it panicked to compensate.

We don't have video, but this contrast in our hearts really flourishes in exercise. We both have low ejection fractions at rest because our hearts are so large a small percentage still amounts to large stroke volume. (Although his disease is advanced enough that his stroke volume is getting too low.) If we were to exercise though, the scarring prevents his damaged heart from contracting much harder than it can at rest. Even in light exercise then, his heart rate will skyrocket before decompensating and going totally out of rhythm as his heart fails. You've seen this in some of his videos. My heart by comparison will expand and contract harder as exercise intensity increases, allowing my heart to pump gallons and gallons of blood as its output increases beyond standard limits.

His right ventricle is also normal in size but looks small because his left ventricle is so large. You can really see here just how much cardio has enlarged my right ventricle. The biventricular enlargement reemphasizes athlete's heart syndrome as it represents improved function of my right ventricle to support the enhanced left. In fact my right ventricle clocks in at 56mm and 7-9mm thick walls. For context, that is the size of a well trained amateur's *left ventricle*; my heart is so enlarged that supporting my left ventricle requires the output of most athletes' entire heart. His right ventricle is not up to the task. Even if his left wasn't damaged and could beat well, the rv isn't big enough to fill that massive heart. His heart is doomed to fail.

I love that our hearts are opposite ends of the cardio spectrum. We are both genetic flukes (DCM is usually genetic, the extent of my enlargement can only be genetic). We have both extensively pushed our hearts in their natural directions, mine by constantly trying to improve its function and grow it, him by engaging in dark play. And we are both extremely "advanced", with his heart essentially a non functional balloon and mine 99th percentile among Olympic athletes. What's so cool is on a still image, our hearts are still pretty similar looking. Certainly explains why some cardiologists look at my heart with concern. I should show them his.

[healthcareporium]

Dilated cardiomyopathy (Dilated Cardiomyopathy) is a condition characterized by the dilation and impaired contraction of the left ventricle, leading to heart failure. Despite advancements in medical research, significant gaps remain in Dilated Cardiomyopathy treatment, with many patients experiencing limited improvement from current therapies.

[the-woman-empowered]

Dilated Cardiomyopathy: Navigating the Guilt of Motherhood

Navigating feelings of guilt can be challenging when your child is dealing with a chronic illness.

Motherhood is difficult when your children have dilated cardiomyopathy, I have four kids who live at home with me, two of whom have a genetic heart condition called dilated cardiomyopathy, accompanied by heart failure. Dilated CARDIOMYOPATHY: a heart condition where the heart can’t pump blood effectively because the left ventricle is enlarged and weak. I spent nine months without the slightest…

[bhushans]

Top Pharmaceutical Companies in the Global Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy Drugs Market

The global canine dilated cardiomyopathy drugs market is experiencing notable growth, reaching an estimated value of US$ 3643.6 million in 2023. Following this positive start, the market is projected to grow steadily at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.80%, potentially generating revenues worth over US$ 5822.9 million by 2033. This remarkable progress highlights the heightened awareness around canine health and the subsequent surge in demand for cutting-edge therapeutic alternatives for treating heart-related disorders in dogs.

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) refers to a severe heart disease affecting dogs, necessitating efficient pharmacologic management strategies using targeted medications. By improving myocardial contractility, enhancing diastolic function, controlling arrhythmias, and decreasing adverse remodeling, DCM drugs offer crucial support in combatting vital cardiovascular problems in canines.

Request A Report Sample To Gain Comprehensive Insights! https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-10023

"We are witnessing a notable surge in the market for canine dilated cardiomyopathy drugs, indicative of the increasing concern and care for our furry companions' cardiac health," stated a representative from Future Market Insights. "This growth trajectory aligns with the continuous developments in veterinary science, offering hope for improved treatments and outcomes for dogs affected by heart-related ailments."

The forecasted rise in the market emphasizes the ongoing commitment of pharmaceutical companies, veterinarians, and researchers to innovate and develop effective solutions for canine cardiovascular health. For further details, access the comprehensive report on the Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy Drugs Market by Future Market Insights.

Key Takeaways from the Market Study:

The canine dilated cardiomyopathy drugs industry expanded at a CAGR of US$ 2901.92 million in 2018.

The canine dilated cardiomyopathy drugs industry in 2022 was US$ 3480 million.

The global canine dilated cardiomyopathy drugs industry is forecasted to expand at a CAGR of 4.80% and is estimated to be valued at US$ 5822.9 million from 2023 to 2033.

The global canine dilated cardiomyopathy drugs industry expanded at a CAGR of 3.7% between 2018 and 2022.

India expands at a CAGR of 6.10%.

China thrives at a CAGR of 5.30%.

Japan is expected to fuel the growth of the canine dilated cardiomyopathy market in the region with a value share of 4.9%.

Australia is said to capture a CAGR of 4.20.

Asia Pacific’s canine dilated cardiomyopathy market is predicted to expand at a 3% CAGR during the forecast period.

North America is anticipated to witness growth at a significant rate over the forecast period with a market share of 33.1%.

Growing incidences of cancer in the United States of America are expected to accelerate the market growth in the region in the forthcoming years with a market share of 34.1%.

Injectable holds a significant market share of 54.7% in the market.

Institutional sales are preferred most in this Market.

Institutional sales majorly include veterinary hospitals or clinics holding a value share of 62.1%.

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors hold the most dominant position in the market holding a market value of 55.6%.

Rise in the prevalence of cardiac diseases with technological advancements acts as a significant prominent driver of the canine dilated cardiomyopathy drugs market - comments a Future Market Insights Analyst

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Competitive Scenario:

Some of the prominent players profiled in the global industry:

H. Boehringer Sohn AG & Co.

KG, Merck & Co.

Dechra Pharmaceuticals PLC, Zoetis Inc.

Bayer AG

Orion, Elanco

SAVA Vet

Elanco

Zoetis Inc.

Boehringer Ingelheim

Merck

Key Innovation of the Market Players:

In June 2023, Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, announced topline results from the Phase 3 KEYNOTE-585 trial, investigating KEYTRUDA, Merck’s anti-PD-1 therapy, in combination with chemotherapy as neoadjuvant treatment. It is followed by adjuvant treatment with KEYTRUDA plus chemotherapy, KEYTRUDA monotherapy in patients with locally advanced resectable gastric and gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma.

At a pre-specified interim analysis conducted by an independent Data Monitoring Committee, where the study met one of its primary endpoints of pathological complete response (pCR) rate and demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in pCR rates compared with chemotherapy alone.

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Key Segments in the Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy Drugs Industry Survey:

By Drug Class:

ACE Inhibitors

Vasodilators

Diuretics

Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARB)

Cardiac Glycosides

Anti-arrhythmic

Pimobenden

By Route of Administration:

Oral

Injectable

By Distribution Channel:

Institutional Sales

Veterinary Hospitals

Veterinary Clinics

Retail Sales

Retail Pharmacies

Drug Stores

Online Pharmacies

By Region:

North America

Latin America

Europe

South Asia

East Asia

Oceania

The Middle East & Africa

[why-animals-do-the-thing]

Do you have a snoot noodle or other variation of sighthound? If yes, there’s new heart health research for the breed happening!

A researcher at Texas A&M whose work I’m familiar with is starting a new study looking at genetic factors contributing to heart disease in Borzoi and related breeds. They just put out a call for dog owners who are willing to submit saliva samples & (noodle) medical records. Studies like this need a big sample size! They’re accepting new sign-ups starting now until March 1, 2025, for dogs both in the US and internationally.

Let’s help make some science!

From the study page:

“Background and purpose

Recent research in Borzoi dogs has revealed that dogs of this breed experience sudden, unexplained death. About 85% of sudden, unexplained deaths in humans are linked to an underlying heart disease. Our existing research in Borzoi dogs has shown that they are predisposed to developing arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms) and dilated cardiomyopathy (a heart muscle disease causing dilated heart chambers and weak pumping function).

Due to our documentation of the frequency of these conditions in Borzoi dogs, we seek to identify responsible genetic variations similar to what is seen in humans with electrical cardiac diseases that trigger arrhythmias and dilated cardiomyopathy.

The objective of our study is to identify genetic mutations associated with heart disease in Borzoi dogs and document their existence in other sighthound breeds.

What happens in this study

We are collecting saliva samples from both healthy Borzoi and Borzoi dogs affected with arrhythmias and/or dilated cardiomyopathy. We will also collect saliva samples from any other sighthound breeds.

We will extract DNA from these samples and perform genomic sequencing on a select number while retaining the remainder for further screening.By analyzing the sequencing data, we can compare the genes of healthy and affected Borzoi dogs and identify variants linked to their heart conditions. We will also compare the findings in Borzoi dogs to results from other sighthound breeds.

Pet owner responsibilities

A swab kit will be sent to you for at home use along with a link to an instructional video on how to properly obtain a swab of the mouth. The kit will contain equipment to collect the saliva swab, a history form for your pet, a client consent form and a shipping label to return samples to us.

Participation requirements

To participate, you must have a Borzoi dog or a sighthound breed that is either healthy or affected by arrhythmias and/or dilated cardiomyopathy. Pets may be any age or sex. Electronic or paper veterinary medical records will need to be provided.

Benefits and risks of participating

There is little to no risk for taking a brief swab of the mouth for saliva collection if procedures outlined in the video are followed. No individual genetic test results will be provided to study participants.

Compensation

There is no cost to the owner for participating in this study. No compensation will be provided.”

[alilixx]

Heyy could u write a greg house x reader

Shes a doctor or prob a surgeon and its like season 1 ep 13 , she gets sick and needs a heart transplant or something like that but she doesn’t want to then house convinces her coz he likes her and house lies for her so she can get the transplant and they used to flirt before and all but after that they confess about liking each other and start dating ☺️ thanks

IM SOO SORRYYY SCHOOL STARTED AGAINNN SOO LESS TIME FOR WRITE FANFIC BUT I WILL TRY WRITE FOR EVERY WEDNESDAY AND WEEKEND <33

Surgeon!FemReader x Gregory House

You had already noticed unusual signs for several weeks. At first, it was just fatigue. Nothing more. You convinced yourself it was due to your endless hours in the operating room, those sleepless nights that kept piling up. Just a bit of exhaustion, something every surgeon knows well. But the palpitations intensified, followed by slight dizziness, then that crushing sensation in your chest, as if your own heart was fighting against you. You eventually ran a series of tests, discreetly, hoping it was nothing.

But the results didn’t lie: severe dilated cardiomyopathy. Your heart, your most precious instrument, the one that allowed you to save lives day after day, was betraying you. But you refused to believe it.

Today, as you sat in House’s office, surrounded by his diagnostic team, you were desperately searching for a way out, an alternative explanation. Something that would prove this was all a mistake. After all, you were a doctor, you knew diagnoses were never infallible.

"I want your opinion," you finally said, crossing your arms as if to shield yourself from what was coming next. "I did my own tests, but I want to be sure. Maybe I'm too involved to see things clearly."

House looked up, intrigued by your direct tone. "Too involved? You mean, too much in denial."

Cameron stepped forward to review your results, her eyes scanning every detail. "The echocardiograms clearly show dilatation of the heart chambers. You already have a heart murmur, you’ve felt it, haven’t you?"

You frowned, hesitating to respond. Of course you had felt it. But admitting it would make everything more real.

"I want to believe it’s something else," you murmured, your voice betraying, for the first time, a hint of vulnerability. "I’m a surgeon. I can’t... afford to have a failing heart."

Foreman shook his head, pragmatic as always. "You can’t afford not to act either. If you let this get worse, you won’t even have the chance to enter the operating room next time."

You looked away, your throat tight. Fear was rising inside you, a fear you hadn’t felt in a long time. You had always been able to control everything, every incision, every move. But now, it was your own body slipping through your fingers.

House, as always, wasted no time twisting the knife.

"It’s fascinating. You’d rather believe that all this will resolve itself, as if your heart is just going to miraculously decide to heal. Spoiler alert: it won’t." He tilted his head, scrutinizing your face. "But I’m curious. Why consult my team if you’ve already done the tests yourself? Looking for validation or an excuse to do nothing?"

His sarcasm irritated you, but you knew he was right. "Because I want... I want to be sure."

"Sure of what? That you’re dying? Let me confirm it for you, you are. Now that’s settled, we can move on to the next step: you’re refusing the only solution that could save you because you’re afraid of losing control. Interesting, but not surprising."

"I’m not afraid," you retorted, more to convince yourself than to answer him.

House didn’t believe you for a second. He moved closer, leaning his cane against the edge of his desk.

"You’re lying to yourself." His gaze pierced through yours, as if he could see past all your defenses. "You’ve seen how many transplants fail. But you’ve also seen how many succeed. So why condemn yourself when you know you have a chance to make it?"

Silence fell over the room. His words struck you deeper than you wanted to admit. You had spent months running from this reality, pretending it was just a passing episode. But here you were, sitting in front of specialists who left you no escape. That’s when House chose to play his final card.

"I’m going to ask you a very simple question." He sat back behind his desk, tapping the file of his favorite patient: you. "Do you want to die just to stay loyal to your own arrogance? Or do you want to live long enough to annoy me even more?"

You felt a strange warmth rising to your cheeks. House hadn’t spoken those words with his usual cynicism. It was subtle, almost imperceptible, but you knew he genuinely cared about you. And that thought unsettled you more than anything else.

You lowered your eyes to your trembling hands. You were a surgeon, a strong person. Yet, for the first time in a long while, you felt vulnerable. And House had seen it from the very beginning.

The silence in House’s office was heavy after the intense discussion about your condition. The diagnosis was now certain: a heart transplant was your only chance. Yet, one question remained, one that had been haunting you. If you were really going to undergo this operation, there was only one person you trusted enough to put your life in their hands: House.

So, in a rare moment of vulnerability, you took a deep breath and asked the question you had been dreading from the start.

"I want it to be you. You’ll be my surgeon."

The team exchanged stunned glances. House, however, remained silent for a moment, his piercing blue eyes fixed on you. Then he let out a dry laugh.

"Me? No. Bad idea. Very bad idea."

You frowned, stung by his reaction. "Why? You’re one of the best doctors I know."

House straightened up, pressing his cane against the floor before fixing you with an unusually serious look. "I’m not a surgeon. I diagnose. I play with ideas, I take risks, but I don’t hold a scalpel over living patients. I don’t do surgeries."

You couldn’t believe what you were hearing. He was so confident, so skilled at solving impossible cases, and yet, here in front of you, he seemed hesitant. You stepped closer to him, determined to understand.

"Are you afraid of messing up?" you asked, your voice low but sharp.

House let out a sarcastic laugh, but you sensed a certain nervousness behind his tone. "No, I’m afraid of killing someone because of my damn leg and my trembling hands. If you want someone to do this surgery without screwing it up, ask a real surgeon."

His rejection hurt you deeply. You had opened up to him, and he was pushing you away without a moment’s hesitation. You felt anger rising within you, mixed with the pain of a feeling you didn’t want to name.

"I thought I could trust you," you whispered, your eyes burning with disappointment. "But I see I was wrong."

Before he could respond, you turned on your heels and left the office, leaving House and the team behind. The sound of your footsteps echoed in the empty hallway as you walked towards your own uncertain future. Your heart was pounding painfully, both physically and emotionally. He had rejected you when you had offered him your fragile trust.

A few days later, you found yourself in the pre-op room, your face calm, but your mind in turmoil with conflicting emotions. You had finally accepted the transplant, even though it terrified you. Another surgeon had been assigned for the operation, a competent colleague, but not House. His refusal still haunted you, the abrupt way he had pushed you away, as if your life meant nothing to him.

The medical team busied themselves around you, but all you could hear was a dull hum, lost in your thoughts. An anesthesiologist approached, and as you lay down on the operating table, a strange sense of calm washed over you.

Then, in the haze of preparation, something caught your attention. A voice, familiar, behind the masks and caps.

"Start the anesthesia. We’re going ahead with the transplant."

You weakly opened your eyes. It was House.

Your heart skipped a beat, as if, even before the surgery, he already knew how to unsettle you. You tried to move, to speak, but the anesthesia was already taking effect. Everything became blurry, but you heard his voice clearly, that deep, slightly rough voice that comforted you despite yourself.

"Sleep now, it'll be fine. You’ll be alive to yell at me later."

Then total darkness.

You woke up in a hospital room. The soft morning light filtered through the curtains, and you felt a dull ache in your chest. But more than that, you felt your heart beating. A new heart. A strange sensation, both comforting and unsettling.

You slowly turned your head, and to your surprise, you saw House sitting in the corner of the room, his gaze fixed on you. He looked exhausted, as if he hadn’t slept in days. His eyes locked on yours with a new intensity, almost worried.

"I knew you were stubborn, but you really outdid yourself this time," he said, without a hint of humor.

You looked at him, still too weak to speak. Then, slowly, you remembered what had happened before the surgery. He had refused. You had been hurt. But now, he was here.

"You... operated on me?" you finally murmured, your voice hoarse.

House gave a slight nod, avoiding your gaze for a moment. "Yeah. I didn’t really have a choice, apparently. Everyone’s incompetent except me." But there was something else in his voice, an unspoken admission.

You tried to sit up, but the pain in your chest made you wince. House immediately stood up and moved closer to you. "Take your time. Don’t be stupid."

You stared at him, still in shock from what you had just discovered. "Why? Why did you do it when you said you didn’t want to?"

He sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Because..." He paused, searching for the right words. That wasn’t like him. "Because I couldn’t let another surgeon kill you. If someone was going to save you or lose you, it had to be me."

He looked straight into your eyes, and this time, you saw the fear behind his usual cynicism. The fear of losing you, the fear of failing. It wasn’t just about the surgery, it was about feelings, the ones he didn’t want to admit, but which were so clear in that suspended moment.

"You were scared," you said softly, a slight smile on your lips. House looked away, grumbling. "I’m not afraid of anything. I’m just smarter than everyone else."

But you knew. You knew he had taken this risk because he cared about you, even if he would never say it outright. You placed your hand on his, a simple gesture, but one that spoke for you. And, against all odds, he didn’t pull his hand away.

The days following the surgery were filled with moments of uncertainty and relief. Each steady beat of your new heart was a promise that life would go on, a victory against fate. But something lingered, like a palpable tension between you and House. He came to see you almost every day, always with his usual sarcasm, but something had changed.

That morning, you woke up with the same familiar pain in your chest, but this time it was different — the pain of healing. You slowly sat up in your bed, observing the soft light filtering through the hospital curtains. Your body was still weak, but each day felt like a small victory. And despite the fatigue, you were more clear-headed than ever.

The door to your room opened gently, and of course, House walked in, leaning on his cane with that familiar limp you knew so well. He stared at you for a moment, as if assessing your condition, then casually remarked:

"How’s my favorite patient? Still alive, apparently."

You managed a smile, even though part of you still wondered why he could never be serious for more than a few seconds. "I’m doing well, Greg. And you know it."

He raised an eyebrow at the sound of his name. That wasn’t something you used often. Usually, you always called him "House," like everyone else.

He came closer and sat in the chair next to your bed, letting out a sigh. "Well, that’s good news. I would have hated to explain to the team that I messed up my best patient. That would be bad for my reputation."

You knew he used humor to mask something deeper. A silence settled in, almost comfortable, but filled with unspoken words.

"Why did you decide to operate on me?" you finally asked, breaking the silence. "I hurt you when I asked, but you did it anyway."

House looked away, as he often did when faced with a question that was too personal. He tapped his cane against the floor, searching for words or perhaps a way to sidestep the answer.

"It was a challenge. I couldn’t let another surgeon handle such a complex operation, especially on someone as annoying as you." He smiled, but his gaze betrayed something else, something more sincere. "And I guess I was a little afraid you’d slip away from me."

This confession took you by surprise. You knew House wasn’t the type to openly express his emotions, especially not with such direct words. You watched him in silence, your thoughts swirling. He had taken a huge risk by operating on you, not just medically, but emotionally.

"I’m not going to slip away from you, Greg," you murmured. "Not now."

His eyes settled on you, softer than usual. "Not now," he repeated, almost to himself.

Initially, it was supposed to be temporary. Just long enough for you to fully recover from the surgery, for your body to adjust to the new heart, and for you to be closely monitored, "just in case." House had insisted, almost casually, on this option.

"It would be stupid to leave you alone. If something goes wrong, I’d rather have you in my sight, not on the other side of town," he had said, as if the decision was purely pragmatic.

You had hesitated. Living at House's, even temporarily, seemed risky, given the complexity of your relationship. But somewhere, you felt that beneath his usual cynicism, he genuinely cared about you. So you had agreed, thinking it would last just a few days, maybe a week or two.

The first night at his place was strange. His apartment, which you had visited a few times before, felt more welcoming than you had imagined. A blend of old and modern, of perfectly organized chaos, typical of House. Medical books stacked everywhere, piano sheets scattered about, whiskey bottles casually left on the coffee table. You felt like an intruder in his space, but he made no effort to make you feel otherwise.

"Make yourself at home. I don’t have silk pillows or almond milk, but there’s unlimited Ibuprofen," he had said, settling onto his couch with a glass of whiskey.

That first night was calm. House kept an eye on you from the corner of his gaze, even though he pretended to be absorbed in an old documentary. Despite the strangeness of the situation, a certain serenity had settled in.

The next day, as you began to get used to this new arrangement, someone knocked at the door. You weren’t expecting visitors, especially not this early in the morning. House, already up (for once), went to open it, and you immediately recognized the familiar voice of James Wilson.

"Hey, House, I brought donuts. I wanted to talk to you about a case..." His voice cut off abruptly as he entered the living room and saw you sitting on the couch, a cup of tea in hand.

The silence that followed was almost comical. Wilson looked at you, then at House, then back at you, as if he had stumbled upon a scene he couldn’t quite comprehend.

"What the... ? What are you doing here?"

You gave a slight smile, a bit embarrassed, while House, completely unfazed, grabbed one of the boxes of donuts that Wilson had brought.

"She lives here. Well, temporarily," House replied before taking a bite out of a donut, as if the situation was perfectly normal.

Wilson stood there, speechless for several seconds. "You... you let her live with you? You?"

House shrugged. "It’s easier for post-operative monitoring. And besides, she’s not unbearable. Well, not all the time."

Wilson blinked, still in shock. He slowly sat down on a chair, setting down the other box of donuts. "That... that’s so unlike you, Greg."

"Well, maybe I’ve changed. Or maybe it’s just convenient." House made a dismissive gesture, but you could see that even for him, this situation was still new.

Wilson gave you a questioning look, searching for answers. You simply shrugged, an amused smile on your lips. "It’s temporary, really."

Wilson shook his head, clearly disturbed but also amused. "If you tell me he let you choose a movie last night, I think I’m going to faint."

You laughed lightly, and even House cracked a small smile, despite himself. The tension slowly faded, and Wilson relaxed, even though he continued to shoot you incredulous glances from time to time.

Days passed, and what was supposed to be a temporary arrangement stretched on longer than expected. There was no specific date for your departure, and House didn’t seem in a hurry to see you go. In fact, he even seemed to enjoy your presence, even if he categorically refused to admit it.

One evening, as you settled into the couch with a blanket over your knees, House sat down next to you without a word. He turned on the TV and flipped through channels until he found an old black-and-white movie. It had become a routine: you spent the evenings together, sometimes in silence, sometimes exchanging sarcastic comments about what you were watching.

It was in this tranquility that Wilson made his second appearance at House's place.

"I brought wine," he announced as he walked in, looking noticeably more comfortable with the situation this time.

You smiled, shifting a bit to make room for him. House raised an eyebrow. "Wine? Since when do you bring wine to my place?"

Wilson shrugged. "I thought we could celebrate... I don’t know, this strange normality?" He glanced at you as if to make sure everything was okay.

The evening went off without a hitch. The wine flowed, sarcasm flew, and Wilson, despite his more serious habits, allowed himself to be caught up in the relaxed atmosphere. The movies changed on the screen, but soon it was the discussions that took over.

"I have to say, I’m still surprised you let her stay," Wilson remarked, casting a glance at House.

House, lounging casually on the couch, responded without really looking at Wilson. "It’s not so bad. She doesn’t bother me too much. Unlike you."

Wilson rolled his eyes. "I bring you wine, I do my best not to invade your space, and this is how you thank me."

You laughed, shaking your head. "He doesn’t know how to do anything else, James. You know him."

"That’s true," Wilson replied with a smile. "But anyway, I’m glad you’re recovering well. He seems to be taking good care of you."

You turned to House, who was clearly avoiding your gaze. "He’s doing what he can," you said softly, but with a smile in your voice.

House pretended not to hear, focusing on the television. But in his silences, you could feel that he was getting used to this new life.

Days passed, and what was supposed to be a temporary living arrangement quietly settled into a routine. Little by little, you had begun to integrate into House's daily life, and he, without a word, had allowed you to do so.

One evening, after a long day at the hospital, you got home before him. House had sent you a terse message: "I’ll be late. Bistro operation in the kitchen." You smiled at his words, already imagining what that meant.

Tired but determined not to let it get you down, you began rummaging through House's kitchen cabinets. He had everything, but nothing was in its place. A controlled chaos that, surprisingly, made sense to you. You grabbed some vegetables and an old skillet, determined to prepare something before his return. The kitchen was a place where you could lose yourself in simple tasks, away from the complexities of your work as a surgeon.

A few dozen minutes later, as you were focused on a sauce you were preparing, the door opened. House entered, looking tired but intrigued by the aromas wafting from the kitchen.

"Are you pretending to be a chef now?" he said as he approached you.

You smiled without turning around, continuing to stir the sauce. "I thought it would be a change from pizza boxes and whiskey."

House leaned in slightly to smell what you were making, nodding his head in approval. "I suppose that works for me. But if it’s bad, you’ll hear me complain for days."

You chuckled softly, knowing very well he meant it half-seriously. He made no attempt to push you away from the kitchen; on the contrary, he grabbed a knife and started slicing the bread, his movements precise despite the cane that always lingered nearby.

The scene was almost domestic. House, with his usual sarcasm, and you, focused on your sauce. You didn’t talk much, but the silence wasn’t uncomfortable. There was a certain peace in these simple moments. You sensed that he was getting used to this new dynamic, even though he was still incapable of admitting it out loud.

"I have to admit," he finally said, slicing a piece of bread, "you’re not doing too badly for a surgeon. Maybe it’s time to change careers."

You gave him an amused look. "You say that now, but just wait until you taste it."

"Oh, I fully intend to critique every bite."

He was smiling slightly, but you could feel the bond growing a little stronger with each shared meal, each simple task completed together.

It had been a long time since you had left the operating room, but you didn’t miss your home at all, and House understood that... well, House is House.

A few weeks later, after several similar evenings, you had finally made official what was happening between you. It hadn’t been a grand romantic declaration, far from it. As with everything involving House, things had evolved naturally, in a sort of unspoken agreement that was becoming clearer and clearer. One evening, as you were both settled on the couch, he had placed his hand over yours, as if it was the most obvious thing in the world.

"Do you mind if we drop the ‘temporary’?" he asked, his eyes fixed on the television screen.

You felt your heart race, even though the question was posed in that casual tone that characterized him. You squeezed his hand slightly in response, your smile overshadowing the answer you didn’t even need to say. Indeed, it was his way of asking you to be his girlfriend.

The following Monday, things were different, but not enough to shake up the universe of Princeton-Plainsboro. You had decided to keep nothing hidden, but without making it a topic of conversation. After all, it was impossible to hide anything from House’s team.

Wilson, of course, was the first to react. When he saw you enter the hospital together that morning, he furrowed his brow, an expression somewhere between amusement and surprise.

"So, it’s official? You finally made it official?"

True to form, House simply rolled his eyes. "Officially? If it makes you happy to label it that way, then yes."

Wilson smiled, a little too pleased with himself. "I knew this would happen, but I have to say, it’s impressive that you held out this long before admitting it."

You couldn’t help but chuckle softly, amused by the dynamic between the two friends. "He has his moments of resistance," you added jokingly.

But the real test came when you arrived in the diagnostic room, where House’s team was already gathered. Chase, Cameron, and Foreman were discussing a new case, but they all looked up when you walked in together.

Chase was the first to react, his eternal smirk in place. "Oh, I see. That’s why we all stayed until midnight last week. You had ‘personal’ plans."

House stopped, crossing his arms with a piercing look. "You’re right, Chase. And if you keep talking, you’ll end up with the chore of sanding the autopsy room again. Unless, of course, you want to find yourself a social life."

Foreman cracked a playful smile while Cameron seemed half-surprised, half-envious. "So... you’re together?" she asked with a mix of shyness and curiosity.

You exchanged a glance with House. You hadn’t discussed how you were going to handle this with the rest of the team, but it seemed it was already out in the open.

"Yes," you replied simply, with confidence. "We’re together."

Without missing a beat, House added with a smirk, "But don’t worry. It’s not going to affect my desire to make your lives miserable."

You had gotten into the habit of cooking together from time to time, even though House continued to tease you about your culinary skills. You also spent many quiet evenings talking about everything and nothing or simply watching movies in silence.

One evening, as you were chopping vegetables in the kitchen, House approached you and set a glass of wine on the counter.

"Looks like we’ve become boring, huh?"

You laughed softly, setting down the knife. "If that’s what you call boring, I’m perfectly fine with that."

He looked at you, a smile softer than usual on his lips. "Well, as long as you’re okay with it, I guess I can get used to the boredom."

It was the first time he admitted, without sarcasm or dark humor, that he enjoyed this new life together. And you knew that behind his facade was a man deeply attached, even if he showed it in his own way.

[imperatordavianus-blog]

For those who are wondering. Do giant hearts exist? And the answer is yes. And do women get them? Yes, yes they do. And can a woman have aneurysms of her great blood vessels? Yes, yes they can. And in fact, here are some perfectly great examples of the.

Cardiomegaly and Aneurysms of the great blood vessels.

https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Idiopathic-dilated-cardiomyopathy-in-a-28-year-old-woman-with-shortness-of-breath-a_fig2_221781930

https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Fig-1-Extremely-enlarged-heart-a-Chest-X-ray-film-shows-marked-cardiomegaly-b_fig1_46168679

https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Chest-X-Ray-shows-ascending-aortic-aneurysm-and-cardiomegaly_fig1_304779128

https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Chest-x-ray-for-patient-2-a-30-year-old-woman-showing-a-globular-heart-with-oligemic_fig2_233888689

https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Aortic-enlargement-of-sac-formation-in-a-patient-with-TBAD-A-A-60-year-old-woman-with_fig3_320966026

https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Dilated-cardiomyopathy-Echocardiographic-and-cardiac-magnetic-resonance-images-from-a_fig3_271533595

https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Imaging-exams-displaying-the-pulmonary-aneurysm-and-associated-features-A-Chest_fig1_51740514

https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Three-patterns-of-aortic-dilation-in-patient-with-BAV-A-Dilated-tubular-ascending_fig1_319422738

https://cardiothoracicsurgery.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13019-021-01600-0

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1930043316303739

https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Illustrations-of-type-II-thoracoabdominal-aortic-aneurysm-repair-with-adjuncts-A_fig2_223526560

https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Preoperative-CT-scan-showing-a-type-III-thoracoabdominal-aortic-aneurysm-that_fig1_24440788/amp

https://www.researchgate.net/figure/The-photographs-showing-Large-Globular-shaped-heart-in-case-of-Dilated-Cardiomyopathy_fig1_354563009

https://www.wikidoc.org/index.php/Cardiomyopathy_pathophysiology

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9142248/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3155900/

https://www.ajconline.org/article/S0002-9149(19)31189-0/fulltext

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4805784/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5574292/

https://www.heartlungcirc.org/article/S1443-9506%2823%2904225-7/fulltext

https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Reconstructed-CT-image-showing-a-hugely-dilated-left-atrium-extending-to-the-right-of_fig9_319309937

Peripartum cardiomyopathy

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2210261216303662

Now for a poll to all the big breasted women out there. Do you have these? And explain why?

[themiscyradobermans]

Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease vs Dilated Cardiomyopathy (Part 1)

Hope you are ready to do some learning today! I didn't want to bog down Nadia's post too much so I figured I'd do something a little more in depth, separately. I also hope that the information here might help anyone seeking information about either disease. Might want to go and make yourself a drink and/or a snack because this will be a long read.

What is MMVD? Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease also called Degenerative Mitral Valve Disease is the most common cardiac disease affecting dogs. It is an acquired disease (aka "adult onset") that is most typically seen in small breed geriatric dogs. It is characterized by a progressive thickening of the Mitral valve, which is the valve on the left side of the heart - in other words, the valve that connects the left ventricle (LV) to the Left Atrium (LA). The thickening results in it becoming more rigid and overtime it loses the ability to close properly, causing a leak (or regurgitation) from the left ventricle to the left atrium. Over time, the valve has a tendency to become so fibrinous that the leak becomes more important with time, and for some dogs with very advanced MMVD the valve may not even really close much at all anymore.

Because of the leak, over time the left ventricle and the left atrium will enlarge. When the left atrium becomes severely enlarged the patient will progress to congestive heart failure. Because of the stiffening of the valve the chordae tendineae that hold it together are also at risk of rupturing as the disease progresses. When a dog ruptures a major chord, they are at risk of an acute episode of CHF without dilation of the left atrium (because the left atrium does not have a chance to adjust or adapt to the sudden backflow) and patients in this situation will often require critical hospitalization care for 24-48 hours before normalizing. In some very uncommon or rare cases the disease can be self limiting. We have seen it in one or two patients where the dog actually improved after being in B2, with the heart reducing in size because the mitral valve thickened so much it started plugging the leak again. What causes MMVD? It is unknown what exactly causes this process. In certain breeds there is a very strong genetic, hereditary and familial component like in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Dachshunds, Cocker Spaniels, Yorkies, Pomeranians and others. It mostly affects small breeds, but any dog breed can get MMVD. How is it diagnosed? MMVD can only truly be diagnosed exclusively via cardiac ultrasound (echocardiography) by a cardiologist. It can be listed as a differential with the help of other diagnostic tools like x-ray, auscultation (presence of a heart murmur on the left side), age/breed of the patient and clinical symptoms (late stages). There are other diagnostic, clinical tests but they are non-specific blood tests that can merely serve to further refer out to a Cardiologist. Can you treat it? Yes. The primary treatment for MMVD will be the administration of Pimobendan once the disease progresses to moderate stage MMVD classified as ACVIM B2. Because it is so prevalent in dogs there is empirical data on it, and one in particular the groundbreaking EPIC study has helped establish very specific guidelines for the classification of Moderate Stage MMVD and the early (pre-clinical) administration of pimobendan. In order to be classified as B2 and qualify for early administration of pimobendan the dog must meet 4 criteria:

Grade III heart murmur or higher

Left Atrium/Aortic (LA/Ao) ratio of 1.6 or higher

Left Ventricle Internal Diameter in Diastole Normalized for weight (LVIDDN) of 1.7 or higher

VHS (Vertebral Heart Score) of 10.5 or higher on xray

Where an echo is not possible, in order to qualify for pimobendan, it is recommended to wait until the the VHS is equal to 11.5 or higher. What is miraculous about the EPIC study is that it offers proof that administering Pimobendan to a dog in B2/moderate MMVD will slow down significantly the progression of the disease. The median time it takes for a B2 moderate MMVD to progress to a Stage C heart failure is 766 days without the administration of Pimobendan. With pimobendan that median increases by 60% 1228 days. Once a dog reaches CHF typically the prognosis is 6-12 months post diagnosis of CHF. With pimobendan it adds about 10% overall time without clinical signs or quality of life issues. Some Cardiologists will also prescribe an ACE Inhibitor (Angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors) alongside Pimobendan even while still in Moderate/B2 stage, while others will prescribe it rather only once the dog progresses to a Stage C (aka severe stage with congestive heart failure). Once the dog reaches Stage C, typically a diuretic will be added to the treatment. Management can include adjusting dosage of the medication and on occasion adding in additional diuretics, or if exhibiting new cardiac symptoms, adding additional medication. For example in large breed dogs you can see Atrial fibrillation, and in some individuals you'll also see Ventricular Premature Contractions (VPCs or PVCs which doberman people will be familiar with due to its role in DCM) so medications can be added to control these aspects too. Now what is interesting with MMVD is that there are currently two surgical procedures/interventions with very limited availability. One is an open heart surgery that is curative and consists in repairing the Mitral Valve. There is the JASMINE Animal Referral Hospital in Japan where the procedure was developed by Dr Uechi Masami, who has then gone on to train teams in the UK at the Queen Mother Hospital Royal Veterinary College as well as a team in France at HOPIA. Currently Dr Uechi is performing mitral valve repair procedures at the University of Florida in the USA, with the goal to try and train as many teams in the USA and around the world. The likelihood of this surgery ever becoming widespread or common place or even accessible to most people is fairly low, given the high demand, and how resource intensive it is both in equipment and specialized teams. The other very recent intervention is the TEER mitral valve repair, a minimally invasive procedure that consists in installing a clamp on the mitral valve to bring it back closer together and thus reduce or eliminate the leak. Can I do anything to prevent it? While there's nothing you can do to prevent MMVD from occurring, if you intend to purchase a puppy from a small breed or medium breed, especially one of the breeds known to have high prevalence of the disease, it is imperative to ask the breeder if the parents have been screened and are being monitored for cardiac disease by a cardiologist, whether that's with a yearly auscultation or a yearly echocardiogram (because MMVD is always associated with a murmur, for regular owner it is acceptable to auscultate yearly, and only do an echo if/once a murmur is heard). Ask about the pedigree also. I strongly encourage you to start screening/monitoring for it when your dog reaches 4-5 years for at risk breeds. Breeding animals should be screened before being bred and then yearly thereafter. If you are unsure whether your breed is considered at risk, you can check the recommended tests for your breed on the OFA website. If you adopt a pup from a rescue or shelter with an unknown genetic background, I would strongly encourage you to ask your vet to properly auscultate during your yearly vet visits and physical exams, and I would request a referral to a cardiologist (if required in your area, our cardiology department doesn't per se require a referral anyone can call and book) even if your dog only has a Grade I-II murmur.

[cardiacreports2]

Paramedic Incident Report

Incident Number: 2024-19245 Date: December 6, 2024 Time of Call: 15:23

Incident Location: ClimbX Indoor Gym, 345 Summit Street, Boulder, CO

Patient Information:

Name: Daniel Carson

Age: 20

Gender: Male

Height: 5'11"

Weight: 165 lbs

Physical Description: Lean and muscular build with well-defined arms and torso typical of an experienced climber. Short dark brown hair, light complexion.

Description of Incident: At 15:23, dispatch received a 911 call reporting a young male climber had collapsed while bouldering at an indoor climbing facility. The patient was reportedly scaling a mid-level climb when witnesses described him suddenly clutching his chest, losing his grip, and falling to the mat below. He was unresponsive upon initial assessment by gym staff.

Initial Assessment Upon Arrival (15:30):

Level of Consciousness: Unresponsive

Pulse: Absent

Respiratory Effort: None

Skin Condition: Pale, cool, and clammy

Pupils: Fixed and dilated

Bystanders reported that staff initiated CPR immediately after the collapse and delivered one shock using the facility's automated external defibrillator (AED).

Treatment at Scene (15:30-15:45):

CPR: High-quality chest compressions continued upon paramedics’ arrival.

Airway Management: Airway secured with a bag-valve mask; oxygen at 15 L/min.

AED Analysis: AED advised one additional shock, which was administered at 15:35. Return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) achieved at 15:37.

Vital Signs Post-ROSC:

Pulse: Weak and irregular at 45 bpm

Blood Pressure: 80/50 mmHg

Respiration: Shallow and labored at 10 breaths/min

Oxygen Saturation: 78%

Transport Summary (15:45-16:00): Patient was loaded into the ambulance for transport to St. Anthony's Hospital. During transport, the patient exhibited further signs of cardiac distress. At 15:50, he experienced ventricular fibrillation (VF).

Intervention: CPR resumed, epinephrine 1 mg administered IV, and defibrillation attempted twice.

Outcome: No ROSC achieved after second cardiac arrest.

Time of Death: 16:00

Remarks: The patient suffered two cardiac arrests within a 30-minute period, likely indicative of a severe underlying cardiac condition. Efforts to stabilize were unsuccessful due to continued arrhythmias and compromised circulation.

Autopsy Report

Case Number: 2024-AU-1245 Date of Examination: December 7, 2024 Time of Examination: 09:00

Name: Daniel Carson Age: 20 Height: 5'11" Weight: 165 lbs Sex: Male Race: Caucasian

External Examination:

General Appearance: Well-developed and muscular young male. No evidence of external trauma except for mild abrasions on the back of hands and forearms, consistent with climbing activities. Skin pale with slight cyanosis around the lips and nail beds.

Scars/Marks: None significant.

Tattoos: None noted.

Clothing: Patient arrived wearing climbing shorts and a tank top.

Internal Examination:

Cardiovascular System:

Heart: Enlarged, weighing 420 grams (average for age/weight: 300-350 grams).

Valves: Mitral valve revealed significant calcification and fibrosis, indicative of a congenital defect. The defective valve exhibited stenosis, which restricted blood flow and created turbulent circulation.

Coronary Arteries: Severe occlusion (95%) of the left anterior descending (LAD) artery due to atherosclerotic plaque.

Myocardium: Evidence of acute ischemic changes and scarring, suggesting prior silent infarctions. The ventricular walls were thickened (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy).

Aorta: Normal caliber and appearance.

Respiratory System:

Lungs congested, with frothy fluid in the trachea and bronchi.

Right lung: 450 grams; Left lung: 430 grams.

Gastrointestinal System:

Stomach contained approximately 200 mL of partially digested food.

No abnormalities in the esophagus, stomach, or intestines.

Central Nervous System:

Brain weight: 1,450 grams. No gross abnormalities.

Other Organs:

Liver: Enlarged (1,600 grams), possibly due to mild congestion.

Kidneys: Unremarkable.

Spleen: Normal size.

Microscopic Examination:

Heart Tissue: Acute myocardial infarction visible in sections of the left ventricle.

Coronary Arteries: Advanced plaque buildup with rupture and thrombus formation.

Mitral Valve: Fibrotic thickening and calcification evident.

Toxicology:

No evidence of drugs or alcohol.

Summary and Cause of Death: Daniel Carson, a 20-year-old male, died from complications of a congenital mitral valve defect and severe coronary artery disease. The primary event was a massive myocardial infarction triggered by the blockage of the LAD artery. A second cardiac arrest during transport proved fatal.

Final Diagnosis:

Acute myocardial infarction secondary to LAD artery occlusion.

Congenital mitral valve stenosis and calcification.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy contributing to cardiac instability.

Cause of Death: Cardiac arrest due to a defective valve and blocked artery.

Manner of Death: Natural.

Signed by: Dr. Margaret Li, MD Pathologist

[athletearrhythmia]

From this video: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=1pVdi-1qz_I

This is a diseased heart with dilated cardiomyopathy, but especially the exterior shot would look roughly like my heart next to a normal one. Hard to come by anatomy videos of extreme heart enlargement in athletes so this will have to do lol

[saintvienne]

hey everyone, i wanted to share something a little personal with you all. i’ve been diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy, which means my heart is struggling to pump blood properly. because of this, i’ve been advised to reduce my stress and take better care of my health, which might mean i might not be so active in the near future. the stress of everything that’s been going on has made it harder to manage, and it’s been weighing on me more than i expected. i just wanted to let you know why i might seem a little distant and that i’m focusing on my health right now. it's affecting my heart so much that i've been in the hospital three times yesterday and today, and it's hard. thank you all for your understanding. i really appreciate all of your support. much love to everyone. <3

@llexiii @ettarosee @asherjoness @beatricechen @milomanheimm @silaselordi @almondmilkhunniii @juniperelordi @madifilipowiczz @victoriassadcorner @tessaakeithh @valentinespencerr

[the-woman-empowered]

Dilated Cardiomyopathy: Navigating the Guilt of Motherhood

the guilt that exists when one of your children has a chronic condition. Photo owned by author (Layla after being weaned off of sedation) Motherhood is difficult when your children have dilated cardiomyopathy, I have four kids who live at home with me, two of whom have a genetic heart condition called dilated cardiomyopathy, accompanied by heart failure. Dilated CARDIOMYOPATHY: a heart…

[blackbackedjackal]

Oh as a side note, I did confirm that DCM connection to certain dog food brands with the vet. So yeah.

Found one of the FDA reports too:

https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/outbreaks-and-advisories/fda-investigation-potential-link-between-certain-diets-and-canine-dilated-cardiomyopathy

[sandhyamedicity]

Understanding Heart Disease: What is Heart Disease

What is Heart Disease?

Heart disease, also known as cardiovascular disease (CVD), encompasses a range of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels. It is the leading cause of death worldwide, causing significant morbidity and mortality. The term "heart disease" is often used interchangeably with "cardiovascular disease," although technically, cardiovascular disease includes all diseases of the heart and blood vessels, while heart disease specifically refers to conditions affecting the heart itself.

Types of Heart Disease

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): CAD is the most common type of heart disease and occurs when the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle, become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup (atherosclerosis). This can lead to chest pain (angina), heart attacks, and other complications.

Heart Failure: Heart failure, or congestive heart failure, happens when the heart muscle is unable to pump blood efficiently, leading to a buildup of fluid in the lungs and other tissues. Causes include CAD, hypertension, and cardiomyopathy.

Arrhythmias: These are disorders of the heart's rhythm, which can be too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or irregular. Common arrhythmias include atrial fibrillation and ventricular fibrillation, which can significantly impact heart function.

Heart Valve Disease: Heart valve disease involves damage to one or more of the heart's valves, affecting blood flow within the heart. Conditions include stenosis (narrowing of the valve), regurgitation (leakage of the valve), and prolapse (improper closure of the valve).

Congenital Heart Defects: These are heart abnormalities present at birth, ranging from simple defects like a hole in the heart's walls (septal defects) to more complex malformations. They can affect how blood flows through the heart and to the rest of the body.

Cardiomyopathy: Cardiomyopathy refers to diseases of the heart muscle. The heart muscle becomes enlarged, thickened, or rigid, which can lead to heart failure or arrhythmias. Types include dilated, hypertrophic, and restrictive cardiomyopathy.

Pericarditis: Pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium, the thin sac surrounding the heart. It can cause chest pain and fluid buildup around the heart, affecting its function.

Causes and Risk Factors

Heart disease is influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Major risk factors include:

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Hypertension forces the heart to work harder to pump blood, leading to the thickening of the heart muscle and potential heart failure.

High Cholesterol: Elevated levels of cholesterol, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL), contribute to the formation of plaque in the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis.

Smoking: Smoking damages the lining of blood vessels, increases blood pressure, reduces oxygen to the heart, and raises the risk of heart disease.

Diabetes: Diabetes significantly increases the risk of heart disease. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and the nerves that control the heart.

Obesity: Excess body weight strains the heart, raises blood pressure, and increases the likelihood of diabetes and cholesterol problems.

Physical Inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle contributes to obesity, hypertension, and other heart disease risk factors.

Unhealthy Diet: Diets high in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, sodium, and sugar can lead to heart disease by raising cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and weight.

Family History: A family history of heart disease increases one's risk, suggesting a genetic predisposition.

Age and Gender: Risk increases with age, and men are generally at higher risk earlier in life than women, although women's risk increases and can surpass men's post-menopause.

Symptoms

Symptoms of heart disease vary by condition but may include:

Chest pain or discomfort (angina)

Shortness of breath

Pain, numbness, or coldness in the legs or arms

Fatigue

Lightheadedness or dizziness

Palpitations (irregular heartbeats)

Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing heart disease often involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as:

Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)

Echocardiogram

Stress tests

Blood tests

Cardiac catheterization

CT or MRI scans

Treatment strategies vary based on the specific type of heart disease and its severity and may include:

Lifestyle Modifications: Healthy diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation, and weight management are crucial for preventing and managing heart disease.

Medications: Medications can control risk factors such as hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes, or treat specific heart conditions like arrhythmias and heart failure.

Procedures and Surgeries: Angioplasty, stent placement, bypass surgery, valve repair or replacement, and implantable devices like pacemakers or defibrillators may be necessary for severe cases.

Prevention

Preventing heart disease involves managing risk factors through:

Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats

Regular physical activity

Avoiding tobacco use

Controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels

Regular health screenings

Stress management techniques

Understanding and addressing heart disease through lifestyle changes, medical management, and preventive measures is crucial in reducing its impact and improving overall heart health.

[pietercardio]

Have you ever had an echocardiogram or EKG? If so, what did they reveal about your heart?

I had an echocardiogram and it revealed that my ejection fraction was only 30 % due to my dilated cardiomyopathy

[bpod-bpod]

Energy Production Failure

The heart on the left is healthy but the one on the right exhibits the tell-tale signs of dilated cardiomyopathy, including overall enlargement, and thinning and weakening of the muscle walls. In most cases of such cardiomyopathy, the cause is unknown, but recent research indicates dysfunctional energy production, already known to accompany the condition, may actually be an underlying cause. Analysis of gene activity in heart tissue from patients with dilated cardiomyopathy and healthy controls showed expression of mitochondrial metabolism genes, especially two key transcription factors – KDM8 and TBX15 – was disrupted in patient samples. When scientists then deleted KDM8 in mouse hearts, they found the knock-on disruption of TBX15 and other metabolism genes preceded physical signs of cardiomyopathy by months. Knowing that impaired energy production can initiate rather than simply follow myocardial degeneration suggests maintaining it may be a way to slow or stop heart failure.

Written by Ruth Williams

Image from work by Abdalla Ahmed and colleagues, Paul Delgado-Olguín lab

Department of Translational Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Image copyright held by the original authors

Research published in Nature Cardiovascular Research, February 2023

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