Restrictive cardiomyopathy is a type of heart disease where the heart muscle becomes stiff and less flexible. This stiffness prevents the heart from filling properly with blood, leading to reduced blood flow to the body. It can result from various conditions, including amyloidosis or hemochromatosis, which cause abnormal deposits in the heart tissue.
Symptoms of restrictive cardiomyopathy may include fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling in the legs and abdomen. Diagnosis typically involves echocardiograms, MRI, and other imaging tests to assess heart function. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and may include medications or lifestyle changes.