Overview
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetic condition that causes your heart walls to thicken. The thickened walls may block or reverse blood flow, making your heart work harder and harder to pump blood. HCM may also cause an irregular heartbeat (called an arrhythmia).
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy can cause serious heart symptoms or sudden cardiac death, a life-threatening condition that requires emergency care. Young athletes have a higher risk of sudden cardiac death because they perform vigorous physical activity.
Diagnosis, Treatment, and Therapies
To learn about diagnosis, treatment, and therapies, please visit the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) Program.