Dilated cardiomyopathy is a serious condition in which the heart muscle becomes weakened and loses strength to pump blood throughout the body. The weakened heart cannot pump as much blood out, so more blood remains in the heart after each heartbeat. As greater amounts of blood fill and remain in the heart s lower chambers (ventricles), the ventricles expand. In time, the heart muscle stretches out of shape (dilates) and becomes even weaker. Most people with dilated cardiomyopathy eventually develop heart failure. Heart failure does not mean the heart stops pumping; rather, it is a condition in which the ventricles are not able to pump enough blood to meet the body s needs for oxygen and nutrients. With the enlarged right ventricle there are other factors... how long has it been this way? Was it like that when you where born? These questions are best answered by your Dr or specialist.