Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy (HOCM)

Don’t Overwork Your Heart, Recognize HOCM Early

Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy (HOCM) is a serious heart condition characterized by the thickening of the left ventricle muscle. This thickening makes it harder for blood to exit the heart, causing the heart to work harder and potentially leading to heart failure over time.

Why is HOCM Dangerous?

• It reduces the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively.

• It creates resistance in front of the aortic valve.

• It can lead to mitral valve insufficiency by affecting the mitral valve.

• In severe cases, it can result in sudden cardiac arrest.

What Are the Symptoms of HOCM?

The symptoms of HOCM can vary from person to person, and they tend to worsen as the disease progresses. The most common symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath

• Chest pain

• Palpitations and dizziness

• Fainting or feeling faint

• Fatigue and decreased exercise tolerance

• Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia)

How is HOCM Diagnosed?

Accurate and early diagnosis increases the success of treatment. The primary diagnostic methods include:

• Physical examination and patient history

• Electrocardiogram (EKG)

• Echocardiography (ECHO)

• Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

• Cardiac catheterization (if necessary)

Treatment Methods

Our Goal: To Alleviate Symptoms and Preserve Heart Health

1- Medication Therapy

For patients in the early stages, medication is usually sufficient. Treatment can:

• Reduce the workload on the heart muscle

• Regulate heart rhythm

• Relieve symptoms

Regular cardiology check-ups and adherence to prescribed treatments are crucial.

2- Surgical Treatment

In advanced cases, when symptoms cannot be controlled, surgical intervention may be recommended.

• The thickened heart muscle is thinned, and the heart’s exit path is widened.

• If necessary, mitral valve repair or replacement may also be performed.

❗ The information that these operations cannot be performed in Turkey is incorrect. With our experienced and specialized team, we successfully perform these surgeries.