Cardiomyopathy UK

We are the specialist national charity for people affected by cardiomyopathy, a condition that affects the heart muscle. Our vision is that everyone affected by cardiomyopathy should live a long and fulfilling life. Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle. It is a group of conditions that affect the structure of the heart and reduce its ability to pump blood around the body. It can have a devastating impact on the lives of people of all ages, including babies, and is usually inherited. Medical experts estimate at least 1 in 250 people (approximately 266,000 people in the UK) have cardiomyopathy. When people are first diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, they often feel overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty. Coping with the uncertainty of living with a life-threatening condition can put a serious strain on individuals and families. For those living with cardiomyopathy, ongoing symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pains and fatigue can make everyday life a struggle. With the right information, treatment and support, people with cardiomyopathy can manage their condition with medication and implanted devices. However, quality of life varies greatly, and for some, their symptoms will deteriorate and may lead to them needing a heart transplant.