Cardiomegaly is a medical term used to describe an enlarged heart. Considered a symptom rather than a condition, cardiomegaly can occur in response to a variety of circumstances that can cause the heart muscle to work harder than normal. Treatment for an enlarged heart depends on the underlying cause and may involve the use of medications and require surgery. If left untreated, cardiomegaly can lead to premature death.
Situations that can contribute to the development of cardiomegaly can involve congenital conditions, diseases and a deterioration in the function of the body system. People born with a heart defect can develop an enlarged heart due to inadequate blood circulation through the heart muscle. Certain diseases can cause the heart muscle to pump harder than normal, such as anemia, high blood pressure, and heart valve disease. Other conditions, such as thyroid disorders and arrhythmias, can contribute to overstressing the heart. Improper processing and distribution of proteins and minerals within the body's system can also lead to weakening of the heart muscle that negatively affects heart function.
Some people who develop cardiomegaly may remain asymptomatic, which means that they do not experience symptoms. Others may gradually show signs that their heart function is compromised. Shortness of breath, dizziness, and shortness of breath are common signs associated with an enlarged heart muscle. Some people may suddenly develop an abnormal heart rhythm, known as an arrhythmia. Additional symptoms may include swelling of the lower limbs and fingers and a persistent cough.
A variety of diagnostic tests can be done to confirm cardiomegaly. After an initial consultation and examination with a physician, an individual can be sent for a battery of tests. Blood tests may be ordered to assess levels of substances, such as hemoglobin, blood cell and platelet counts, and to rule out other conditions. Imaging tests, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-rays, and a computed tomography (CT) scan, may be done to assess the condition of the heart muscle. In addition, an EKG may be ordered to assess the electrical activity of the heart.
Treatment for an enlarged heart focuses on correcting the underlying condition and relieving unnecessary stress on the heart muscle. People whose cardiomegaly is caused by heart failure may be given prescription drugs to control symptoms. Diuretics, beta blockers, and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors can be given to lower blood pressure, relieve swelling and fluid retention, and improve heart function. Those for whom medications may not be sufficient may require surgery.
The implantation of artificial instrumentation, such as an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) or a pacemaker, may be necessary to control, stabilize, and support adequate heart rhythm. If an individual's enlarged heart is caused by a damaged valve, surgery may be performed to replace the defective valve with an artificial one or one from a donor. In critical cases where the individual's condition may not be controlled by medications, and all other avenues of treatment have failed, a heart transplant may be the only remaining option.
Complications associated with an enlarged heart depend on the part of the heart affected, the severity of the enlargement, and the underlying cause. Those whose enlarged heart originates from the left ventricle are at increased risk of developing heart failure, which occurs when the heart cannot meet the demands that the body places on it. Some people with cardiomegaly may develop a heart murmur or blood clots. Other complications associated with this condition include heart attack and sudden death. People who have been diagnosed with conditions such as coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, and heart disease are at increased risk of developing an enlarged heart.