stress reveals genetic heart condition hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
A 73-year-old woman's diagnosis of atrial fibrillation eventually led to the discovery of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a genetic heart condition characterized by muscle thickening. The case underscores the importance of screening for family members and recognizing stress-induced symptoms.
Why it matters
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is often misdiagnosed or overlooked, and early detection is critical for managing life-threatening heart rhythm disorders.
Medical Mysteries is a series that spotlights rare diseases or unusual conditions.
Cardiologist Tang Hak Chiaw (left) and his patient Christina Chua, who has the genetic heart condition hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
Listen Summarise Stress triggered severe symptoms in Christina Chua, leading to diagnosis of atrial fibrillation and later hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a genetic heart condition. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy causes thickening of the heart muscle and can be confused with other heart issues; diagnosis is usually via echocardiogram. Proper medication improved Chua’s condition significantly, highlighting the importance of diagnosis and treatment; family members are encouraged to get screened due to genetic risk. AI generated
SINGAPORE – Christina Chua began experiencing severe stress in her 50s, while overseeing administrative and finance functions for a German company with operations here.
“It came to the point where I woke up at 3am and thought about work,” recalled the 73-year-old.
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