@karukgirl Debra gave good information here, as always. I've concluded that cardiologists have their special areas. It would in your best interest to ASK/research yours about HCM. I was fortunate to "be assigned" to a cardiologist with interest and experience with HCM when I was first referred with a murmur. On the website of the hospital system here (Albany Med), staff is listed by specialty with their areas of expertise and interest. I was taking verapamil before surgery. No symptoms for years, then suddenly I did with shortness of breath as the main complaint. At that time the verapamil was increased and taken till a few days before surgery. That resulted in a problem not even Metamucil or eating unsalted nuts could solve! I do remember soft coughing and was told it was a sign that my lungs were having difficulty functioning properly. I suggest getting the cough checked out and keep in mind that the effects of HCM vary from person to person.