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Information on Enlarged Heart

The term "enlarged heart" does not describe a disease, but instead, a health condition that is caused by an underlying illness. High blood pressure is a leading factor in the development of an enlarged heart, and New York-Presbyterian reports that approximately 20 percent of patients that have been diagnosed with high blood pressure develop an enlarged heart. While high blood pressure is certainly not the only cause, managing it can help at least 12 million Americans avoid the life-threatening risks of an enlarged heart.

  1. What is an Enlarged Heart?

    • An enlarged heart is also known as cardiomegaly and is often diagnosed after being picked up on an X-ray of the heart. CNN Health reports that an enlarged heart may only be temporary in some patients, but in others, the condition may be a permanent condition. An enlarged heart is not usually something that can be foreseen; therefore, it is difficult to prevent the condition from occurring. However, treatments options are available to reduce the symptoms and limit complications.

    Causes

    • There are various conditions that can lead to the diagnosis of an enlarged heart. One of these conditions is known as hypertrophy, which causes a thickening of the heart muscle and is usually the result of high blood pressure or diseased heart valves. According to the American Heart Association, a condition known as LVH, or left ventricle hypertrophy, also can be a factor. LVH is the most common cause of heart enlargement and usually causes an inflammation of the left ventricle, which is catastrophic to the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently. Cardiomyopathy, which is an inflammation of the heart muscle, also can lead to enlargement of the heart. The damage from a heart attack also can weaken the heart muscle and lead to enlargement.

    Symptoms

    • Sometimes the presence of an enlarged heart causes no symptoms. Other times, patients may experience symptoms that range in intensity. Heart arrhythmia, which is an abnormal heart beat, also may manifest, in addition to edema, or abnormal swelling of body tissue. The Georgia Department of Community Health explains that the symptoms of heart enlargement can progress and become a health emergency. It is important to seek medical attention if chest pain, shortness of breath or dizziness occurs.

    Complications

    • An enlarged heart can lead to other health-related issues that can be life- threatening. Heart failure, which is denoted by weakened heart muscle and enlarged ventricles, places extra pressure on the heart itself, making it difficult for it to pump blood efficiently. The Mayo Clinic reports that blood clots and heart murmurs also are complications that can arise from an enlarged heart. Cardiac arrest also can develop when an enlarged heart interferes with normal heart rhythms, causing the heart to beat too slow or too fast. Any of these scenarios pose the risk of sudden death.

    Treatment

    • The administration of medications is the most common form of treatment for an enlarged heart. If lifestyle is a factor in heart enlargement, dietary changes and daily exercise may be ordered by the attending physician. Better Health Channel explains that cardiovascular exercise, a low-fat diet and the stabilization of cholesterol levels also is an important part of the treatment process for an enlarged heart. Regular visits to the attending physician or cardiologist also are crucial in monitoring that the chosen treatment options are indeed working.

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