Preparing questions in advance can help patients to have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following questions related to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM):

1. Why do you suspect that I have dilated cardiomyopathy?
   
   
2. What is the difference between DCM and other forms of cardiomyopathy?
   
   
3. Can you determine the cause of my cardiomyopathy?
   
   
4. What tests will be done to diagnose the condition?
   
   
5. How severe is my cardiomyopathy?
   
   
6. What are my treatment options for my condition?
   
   
7. What are the risks associated with these treatments?
   
   
8. If I am placed on mediations, what type will you prescribe?
   
   
9. How long will I need to stay on the medications?
   
   
10. When can I expect to see results from the treatment?
    
    
11. Can lifetyle changes reverse my heart condition?
    
    
12. Do I have any restrictions with DCM?
    
    
13. What signs indicate a medical emergency with my condition?
    
    
14. What is my prognosis with this condition?
    
    
15. How will DCM affect pregnancy or childbirth?
    
    
16. What are the chances my children will inherit DCM?
    
    
17. How can my children be monitored for the condition?