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What Is the Meaning of a Left Atrial Enlargement?

Left Atrial Enlargement (LAE) is also referred to as left atrial hypertrophy. This is a condition in which the left upper chamber of the heart is oversized. In most instances, the condition is caused by a genetic defect.

  1. Symptoms

    • Most symptoms will become aggravated with exertion. Among these are chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, and irregular heartbeats.

    Causes

    • Aside from genetics, the primary cause of left atrial enlargement is obesity. Stress and high blood pressure also seem to be connected to this condition. Mitral stenosis (a narrowing of the mitral valve opening) is another medical condition that is known to cause left atrial enlargement.

    Prevention

    • Healthy eating and exercise are the best prevention, as these are also the best prevention and cure for obesity.

    Treatment

    • The underlying cause is treated if doctors are able. Other treatments are geared towards reducing the heart’s resistance to filling with blood between heartbeats. Beta blockers can be used to help the heart beat less forcefully. Surgery can also be performed in severe cases to remove some of the thickened heart muscle.

    Complications

    • Atrial fibrillation is one complication of left atrial enlargement. Atrial fibrillation is when the left atrium beats rapidly and in an irregular pattern.

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