Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (thickening of the heart muscle) is a common complication of Friedreich’s ataxia, occurring in one out of every two cases.
Left untreated, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy can be serious as it can place strain on the heart, affect the normal flow of blood through the heart and cause irregularities with how the heart beats (arrhythmias). All three of these factors can increase the risk of heart disease.
If you do develop hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, you will receive regular check-ups from a cardiologist (heart specialist).
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy can usually be treated with medication, such as beta-blockers, that cause the heart to beat more slowly, reducing the strain on the heart.
Common side effects of beta-blockers include:
- tiredness,
- cold hands and feet,
- slow heartbeat, and
- diarrhoea and nausea.
Less common side effects of beta-blockers include:
- sleep disturbances,
- nightmares, and
- impotence.
Beta-blockers can also interact with other medicines, which can cause adverse side effects. Therefore, you should check with your GP, or pharmacist, before taking other medicines, including over-the-counter (OTC) medication, in combination with beta-blockers.
