Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy refers to a group of diseases affecting the heart muscle, causing it to become enlarged, thick and rigid. It usually begins in the heart's lower chambers (the ventricles), but as it progresses, it can affect the upper chambers, or atria. In some cases, muscle tissue within the heart is replaced with scar tissue. Cardiomyopathy causes the heart to become weaker and less able to maintain a normal electrical rhythm. As it becomes less able to pump and deliver blood to the rest of the body, heart failure can occur, causing a backup of fluid in the lungs, abdomen, legs, ankles, and feet. Weakening of the heart can lead to other severe complications, such as heart valve disorders.
Why UAB
At UAB, you will receive expert, personalized care from our cardiology clinics both on campus and at our suburban center at Acton Road just off I-459. Specialists from UAB’s world-renowned team of cardiologists offer you the best evidence-based care for cardiomyopathy and other heart and vessel conditions. And when you visit our clinics, you can expect friendly, personalized care backed by UAB’s sophisticated facilities and equipment.
VIDEOS
Heart Acton Video Tour
Heart Acton (fixed) from UAB Health System on Vimeo.
Take a video tour of the UAB Heart & Vascular Clinic at Acton Road.
Heart Transplant
Bob Boyer suffered a major heart attack in August 2011 from which his heart never recovered. That damage meant his heart was slowly failing. Without a heart transplant, Boyer's heart failure would eventually kill him. Watch Boyer's inspiring story of receiving news of a donor heart within hours of going on the transplant list and the doctors at UAB who performed the surgery that saved his life.
RELATED SERVICES
CLINICAL TRIALS
UAB is an active participant in research and clinical trials for cardiomyopathy. We encourage you to speak to your physician about research and clinical trial options and browse the link below for more information.
View Clinical TrialsMORE INFO
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Study shows some heart disease patients implanted with a VAD have better survival and are more likely to receive a heart transplant
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UAB Cardiovascular Institute is Nationally Recognized for its Commitment to Providing High-Quality Heart Care
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Heart-Healthy Tailgates for the Win
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UAB Physicians Using Mpirik Cardiac Intelligence to Address Health Inequities
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Recent Advancements Make it Easier to Live Well with Atrial Fibrillation