Is Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or HCM easily diagnosed?

Yes... An echocardiogram diagnosis quickly

no.

Yes, a simple sonogram will do it, sometimes called an echocardiogram.

I can hardly pronuonce it so yeah it must be?

not really, usually it is associated with left ventricular hypertrophy and is found by a heart catheterization.

It can be depending on the severity. The first step is an ECG and other tests such as a 7 day heart trace (this is like an ECG and is worn for a week. Don't worry you do go home and and wear it and carry on with normal life. Its just a small box you wear on your waist.

Sometimes Cardiomyopathy will have to be confirmed by a procedure called a Heart Cath (Heart Catheterization). This involves putting a small wire into a vein normally in the groin pushing through into the heart. Many procedures can be done during the same test. This is normally only carried out to check the severity of the condition and not as a diagnostic investigation. Something abnormal on the ECG or trace would have to be found first.

HCM is also sometimes called hypertrophic subaortic stenosis (IHSS) or hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM).

Put these things into google for more information.

I hope this helps but more so I hope and pray to god that you have not got this condition. It is important not to worry and consult your GP if you are worried.

Thanks

Craig RGN CCU (Coronary Care)

If you are worried about any symptoms you are currently experiencing try www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk or 0845 46 47 (24 Hours UK ONLY)

yes both my boys were diagnosed with a simple echocardiogram when ty were babys