Heart conditions that are hereditary can affect individuals of all ages, from infants to adults. These conditions are caused by an inherited genetic abnormality or mutation that is passed down from parent to child, and can cause serious heart problems.
The most common hereditary heart conditions include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, dilated cardiomyopathy, and arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is caused by a mutation in the genes that control the contractility of the heart muscle, leading to an abnormal thickening of the heart muscle. This can cause the heart to work harder than usual, leading to symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
Dilated cardiomyopathy is caused by a mutation in the genes that control the normal structure of the heart muscle, leading to an enlarged heart and weakened contractility of the muscle. This can cause the heart to pump inefficiently, leading to symptoms such as poor circulation, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
Arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia is caused by a mutation in the genes that control the normal structure of the heart muscle, leading to abnormal heart rhythm and electrical instability. This can cause an irregular heartbeat, dizziness, chest pain, and lightheadedness.
In addition to these conditions, there are a number of other hereditary heart conditions that can cause serious heart problems. Some of these conditions include long QT syndrome, Marfan syndrome, and congenital heart defects. Long QT syndrome is caused by a mutation in the genes that control the heart’s electrical activity, leading to an abnormally long pause between heartbeats. Marfan syndrome is caused by a mutation in the genes that control the structure of the heart and blood vessels, leading to an enlarged aorta and weakened heart muscle. Congenital heart defects are caused by a mutation in the genes that control the structure of the heart, leading to an abnormal shape or size of the heart.
In order to determine if an individual is at risk for a hereditary heart condition, genetic testing can be done. This testing can detect the presence of a mutation in the genes that control the structure and function of the heart, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment.