Patient/caregiver was instructed regarding complications of dilated cardiomyopathy as follows:
- Blood clot formation: Compromised heart function with fluid back-up, in individuals with cardiomyopathy, can increase the risk for blood clot formation. A case of coexisting arrhythmia can increase the risk for clot significantly. These blood clots floating in circulation can be deposited in any vital organ as emboli, obstruct the blood flow, and can result in serious complications such as myocardial infarction and stroke.
- Compromised end organ function: Progressively reduced blood supply to the end organs, such as, brain, heart, lung, stomach, and kidneys, can result in deterioration of overall function of these organs. Individuals with history of stroke, renal failure, and heart attack, can be at increased risk for symptoms of compromised organ function.
- Increased weakness and fatigue: Reduced blood supply to the muscles can result in reduced oxygen supply to the muscle, thus leading to muscle pain, fatigue, and reduced endurance to activity.
