Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Tips From a Patient

Tips From Lindsay Davis, HCM and Heart Health Advocate Hi, I'm Lindsay Davis, and I was diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) when I was 17. I'd love to share some tips to help you get the most out of your doctor's visit. HCM is a condition where the heart muscle becomes thicker than normal, making it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively. I know how overwhelming it can feel to talk to your doctor – but every appointment is a chance for you to take control of your care. Write down questions about your symptoms, medications, and daily life. Be open with your doctor about what you're experiencing, even if it seems small. Bring a loved one to help you listen and take notes. Ask how your medications work and what side effects to watch for. Talk about how your lifestyle – like exercise, stress, or diet – can affect your heart. You know your body best, and your doctor can adjust your plan as needed. Don't be afraid to find a new doctor if you don't feel supported. The right cardiologist will make you feel like part of the care team, not just a patient. An HCM diagnosis doesn't mean your life is over – you can still live a big, beautiful life. Here are more of my top tips for making the most of your conversation with your doctor – whether you have questions about your HCM diagnosis, treatment side effects, or recommended lifestyle changes. Read More Lindsay Davis Lindsay Davis, Miss Ohio 2011, was just 17 when she collapsed during dance practice and learned she had hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). The diagnosis forced her to give up her dream of performing with the Paris Opera Ballet. But it set her on a new path as an advocate for those living with HCM, and for heart health awareness. She shares her health struggles to help push for earlier diagnosis, better education, and stronger protections – work that helped lead to the passage of Lindsay's Law in Ohio in 2017. The law helps raise awareness of sudden cardiac arrest in young athletes. Today, she continues to model and speak publicly, using her platform to highlight the importance of patient voices for HCM and subtypes like HOCM, and promote equal access to care. While her own dreams may have changed, they never stopped. Follow WebMD On Social Media Where to find us: 283-299 Market Street, 3rd Floor, 2 Gateway Center, Newark, NJ 07102 You are receiving this message because you registered with WebMD as vikiana4.medicallhotline@blogger.com. If you did not register for WebMD, please contact our Customer Care Team. Changed your mind? You can unsubscribe at any time. 2025 WebMD LLC | All rights reserved WebMD Privacy Policy  |  View in Browser WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.