What is hypertensive cardiomyopathy?
A person with hypertensive cardiomyopathy has a weakened heart, caused by the effects of high blood pressure. Over time, uncontrolled hypertension causes weakness of the heart muscle. As hypertensive cardiomyopathy worsens, it can lead to congestive heart failure.

What are the symptoms of hypertensive cardiomyopathy?
Early symptoms of hypertensive cardiomyopathy includes cough, weakness, and fatigue. Additional symptoms of hypertensive cardiomyopathy include leg swelling, weight gain, difficulty breathing when lying flat, increasing shortness of breath with activity, and waking in the middle of the night short of breath.

How does the doctor treat hypertensive cardiomyopathy?
Treatment for hypertensive cardiomyopathy includes effective control of high blood pressure with antihypertensive medications. Additional medications may be prescribed to remove excess water from the body and encourage the heart to pump more effectively. Additional treatment for hypertensive cardiomyopathy may include restricting the intake of fluids, and a diet low in salt, fat, and cholesterol.