Cardiomyopathy is a term used to describe diseases of the heart muscle. It can affect the heart's pumping ability and lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling, and irregular heartbeats. There are several types of cardiomyopathy, including dilated cardiomyopathy, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and restrictive cardiomyopathy, each with its own specific characteristics and causes. Treatment for cardiomyopathy may include medications, lifestyle changes, and, in severe cases, surgery or heart transplantation. Research in this area focuses on understanding the underlying causes of the disease, developing new treatment options, and improving outcomes for patients with cardiomyopathy.