What Causes Cardiomyopathy?

Drugs And Alcohol

The abuse of drugs and alcohol is another common cause of cardiomyopathy. Both drug and alcohol abuse can have a highly toxic effect on many of the body's major organs including the heart. Over time, heavy alcohol or drug usage can damage the muscles of the heart, making it difficult for the heart to function properly. When this happens, the heart becomes enlarged to accommodate the extra blood. Common symptoms of cardiomyopathy caused by drugs and alcohol often include an enlarged heart, heart murmurs, congestion in the lungs and heart, swollen legs and feet, and swollen areas on one or both sides of the neck.