During pregnancy, it’s important for expectant mothers to monitor their blood pressure regularly. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can be a sign of complications like preeclampsia. Additionally, it may increase the risk of heart issues after delivery, a condition known as postpartum cardiomyopathy.

Causes of Heart Problems After Childbirth (Postpartum Cardiomyopathy)

Heart problems aren’t limited to people with prior cardiovascular disease—they can also occur in mothers after giving birth. According to WebMD, postpartum cardiomyopathy is a type of heart failure where the heart becomes enlarged and weakens, reducing its ability to circulate blood efficiently.

Unlike typical heart conditions caused by blocked or narrowed arteries, postpartum cardiomyopathy is marked by the heart’s inability to pump blood effectively. This reduces the oxygen supply to major organs such as the lungs, liver, and others.

This condition can develop in the final month of pregnancy or within five months after childbirth. The exact reason for the sudden heart enlargement remains unclear, but experts suspect it may involve immune system responses, nutritional deficiencies, genetic factors, or damage to blood vessels in the heart.

Who Is at Risk for Postpartum Cardiomyopathy?

Although rare, postpartum cardiomyopathy can occur in some women. The American Heart Association estimates that between 1,000 and 1,300 women in the United States are affected each year. The exact cause is still unknown, but it may be linked to the increased workload on the heart during pregnancy.

Several factors may increase a woman's risk of developing this condition, including:

• Being over the age of 30

• Being overweight or obese

• History of high blood pressure

• Having preeclampsia or eclampsia

• Diabetes

• Asthma

• Anemia

• Autoimmune diseases

Symptoms of Postpartum Cardiomyopathy

Postpartum cardiomyopathy often causes symptoms that resemble those of general heart failure. Common signs may include:

• Difficulty breathing, especially when lying flat

• Persistent coughing

• Swelling in the legs and abdominal area

• Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)

• Feeling extremely tired

• Bulging veins in the neck

• Reduced ability to exercise or perform routine tasks

In milder cases, these symptoms may not significantly interfere with daily life. However, if they become more intense, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider right away. To identify heart-related issues, a doctor will perform a physical checkup and listen for signs of fluid in the lungs. Additional tests may include an echocardiogram, EKG, blood work, or an MRI scan.

Treatment for Postpartum Cardiomyopathy

If postpartum cardiomyopathy is diagnosed, hospitalization may be necessary. If fluid has built up in the lungs, diuretic medications may be given to help the body remove the excess fluid. Other treatments may include ACE inhibitors to reduce the heart’s workload, along with medications that prevent blood clots.

Heart complications after childbirth can appear suddenly, even without warning. That’s why attending regular prenatal visits and seeking prompt care if symptoms arise is essential. When caught early, this condition can often be managed with medication. Many women begin to recover within two weeks to six months after starting treatment.

If you’ve been diagnosed with postpartum cardiomyopathy, your doctor may also advise against future pregnancies, as the condition could return or worsen.

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