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Real members of MyHeartDiseaseTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

What is obstructive and non-obstruction HCM? I was diagnosed with Non-obstructive. I now have a pace maker.

A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member asked a question 💭
Los Angeles, CA
January 25
 · 
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Dilated vs. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: How To Tell the Difference Read Article...
A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member

@A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member There are a lot of videos and articles on the site that might help answer your questions. I have posted many videos on Medical Monday. Go to the search bar, enter Medical Monday HCM, and they should come up for you. Hugs. 🤗

January 26 (edited)
MyHeartDiseaseTeam

What's the difference between obstructive and non-obstructive HCM?

In hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), the heart muscle thickens, making it harder for your heart to work properly. The key difference between the two types is about blood flow:

Obstructive HCM means the thickened heart muscle blocks or slows down blood Show Full Answer

What's the difference between obstructive and non-obstructive HCM?

In hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), the heart muscle thickens, making it harder for your heart to work properly. The key difference between the two types is about blood flow:

Obstructive HCM means the thickened heart muscle blocks or slows down blood flow as it tries to leave your heart. This blockage can happen at rest or only show up when you're active.

Non-obstructive HCM means your heart muscle is thickened, but blood can still flow through without being blocked. Even though there's no obstruction, the stiff, thickened walls still make it harder for your heart to fill with blood and pump effectively.

Both types can cause similar symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and irregular heartbeats. Your pacemaker helps manage any heart rhythm issues that can develop with HCM, ensuring your heart beats at a steady, appropriate rate.

It's great that you're being monitored and treated - HCM is very manageable with the right care plan and regular follow-ups with your cardiology team.

January 25

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