Foreword viii

Introduction: Tips for using this book x

•  What is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) 1

•  Historical perspective and names 3

•  How common is HCM? 5

•  What is the cause of HCM? 8

•  Structure of the heart 14

•  Heart function in HCM 21

•  Left ventricular outflow obstruction 22

•  When does HCM develop? 25

•  Gender and race 27

•  What are the symptoms of HCM? 28

•  How is HCM diagnosed and what tests are used? 31

•  Other tests that may be useful in assessing HCM in selected patients 38

•  Inaccurate diagnosis 40

•  General outlook for patients with HCM 40

•  Complications of HCM 43

•  Special considerations: athletes and sports activities 53

•  Treatments for HCM 55

•  Special considerations for implantable defibrillators 65

•  Obstructive sleep apnea and HCM 78

•  Gene therapy and stem cells 78

•  Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) 79

•  HCM as a chronic disease: Is a cure available? 80

•  Are you newly diagnosed? 82

•  Adapting psychologically to HCM 84

•  Family screening 87

•  What about having children? pregnancy and delivery 89

•  Routine medical care 91

•  Community screening for HCM 96

•  Community outreach 97

•  Driving 98

•  Traveling 99

•  Military service 100

•  Social security benefits 101

•  Family and Medical Leave Act 103

•  Health insurance 103

•  Life insurance 105

•  Students 105

•  HCM centers 106

•  Support and advocacy groups (HCMA) 107

•  What research is being conducted? 110

•  The 36 most frequently asked questions about HCM that are addressed to the HCMA by patients,
caregivers and family members 112

Glossary 123

Further reading 130

HCMA membership application 135

Index 137