What is ischemic cardiomyopathy?

Ischemic cardiomyopathy is a medical condition in which the left ventricle of the heart is enlarged and weakened due to damage from a lack of blood flow, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Coronary artery disease and heart attacks cause it.

Symptoms of ischemic cardiomyopathy include difficulty breathing, leg and foot swelling, fatigue, chest pain and dizziness, explains the Cleveland Clinic. Treatment can include medications, lifestyle changes, implantable devices or surgical intervention, all with the aim of improving cardiac function and reducing symptoms of heart failure. Surgical interventions can include angioplasty, stents or bypass surgery to treat coronary artery disease, or a heart transplant.