Cardiomegaly (Enlarged Heart) Treatment in Delhi, India

Symptoms of cardiomegaly may vary depending on the underlying cause and the extent of heart enlargement. Common signs and symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath

• Fatigue and weakness

• Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet (oedema)

• Rapid or irregular heartbeat

• Chest pain or discomfort

• Dizziness or fainting

• Cough, especially at night

• Difficulty exercising or reduced exercise tolerance

• Hypertension (high blood pressure): Prolonged elevation in blood pressure can lead to heart muscle thickening, causing cardiomegaly.

• Coronary artery disease: Blockage or narrowing of the coronary arteries can damage the heart muscle, leading to heart enlargement.

• Cardiomyopathy: This condition refers to diseases that directly affect the heart muscle ( like- Viral myocarditis and postpartum cardiomyopathy), causing it to enlarge and weaken.

• Valvular heart disease: Conditions such as aortic stenosis or mitral regurgitation can lead to increased workload on the heart and subsequent enlargement.

• Congenital heart defects: Some individuals are born with structural abnormalities in the heart, which can contribute to cardiomegaly.

• Arrhythmias: Certain irregular heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation, can result in an enlarged heart over time.

• Obesity: Excess body weight can strain the heart and contribute to heart enlargement.

• Pulmonary hypertension: Increased blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries can lead to right-sided heart enlargement.

• Chronic lung disease: Conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can cause enlargement of the right side of the heart due to increased resistance in the lungs.

To diagnose cardiomegaly, a healthcare professional will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including:

• Medical history assessment: Inquiring about symptoms, risk factors, and family history.

• Physical examination: Listening to the heart sounds, checking for signs of fluid retention, and assessing overall health.

• Imaging tests: Echocardiography plays an important role in early diagnosis of cardiomegaly. Some cases require Cardiac MRI to visualise scars in heart muscles.

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): It records the electrical activity of the heart, helping detect any irregularities.

• Blood tests: These can help identify underlying causes such as infections, anaemia, or hormonal imbalances. NT Pro BNP test tells about fluid accumulation in the body.

The treatment of cardiomegaly primarily focuses on managing the underlying cause and improving heart function. The approach may include:

• Lifestyle modifications: Adopting a heart-healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, quitting smoking, and managing stress.

• Medications: Prescribed medications may include ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, diuretics, or anticoagulants, depending on the underlying condition, and should be taken under the supervision of a cardiologist.

• Surgical interventions: In severe cases, surgery may be required to repair or replace damaged heart valves, bypass blocked arteries, or correct congenital defects.

• Implantable devices: Special devices such as Biventricular pacemakers/defibrillators are recommended to regulate heart rhythm and to improve symptoms in selected cases. These devices play an important role in preventing sudden cardiac death.

Following factors can increase the risk of developing cardiomegaly:

• High blood pressure

• Obesity

• Smoking

• Diabetes

• Family history of heart disease

• Age (older adults are more prone to heart enlargement)

• Certain congenital heart defects

• Chronic lung disease

If left untreated, cardiomegaly can lead to several complications, including:

• Heart failure: The heart's inability to pump blood efficiently, resulting in fluid buildup in the body.

• Arrhythmias: Irregular heart rhythms that can lead to palpitations, dizziness, or fainting.

• Blood clots: Enlarged chambers can increase the risk of clot formation, which can potentially lead to stroke or pulmonary embolism.

• Sudden cardiac arrest: Severe arrhythmias can cause the heart to stop beating abruptly, requiring immediate medical attention.

While some causes of cardiomegaly cannot be prevented, adopting a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of heart enlargement. Key preventive measures include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Managing high blood pressure, diabetes, lung disease and other chronic conditions.

• Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

• Seeking early treatment for any cardiovascular or respiratory symptoms.

• Regularly monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

1. Can cardiomegaly be cured completely?

Early detection is the key to preventing further progression. Early detection with appropriate treatment can cure it in some cases. The goal is to control symptoms, prevent complications, and improve heart function.

2. Is cardiomegaly a life-threatening condition?

Cardiomegaly can lead to serious complications if left untreated. These complications include heart failure, arrhythmias, blood clots, and sudden cardiac arrest.

3. Can exercise worsen heart enlargement?

In general, regular exercise is beneficial for heart health. However, individuals with cardiomegaly should consult their healthcare provider before starting or modifying an exercise regimen. In some cases, certain types of exercise or excessive exertion may need to be avoided to prevent further strain on the heart.

4. Are there any natural remedies for cardiomegaly?

While lifestyle modifications are important in managing cardiomegaly, there are no specific natural remedies that can cure or reverse heart enlargement. Natural approaches such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular physical activity, stress management, and avoiding smoking can complement medical treatments and improve overall heart health.

5. Can cardiomegaly be reversed with lifestyle changes alone?

Adopting a heart-healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, managing stress, and quitting smoking, can contribute to improving heart health and reducing the progression of cardiomegaly. However, the extent of reversal depends on the severity of the condition, and individual factors. Medical interventions may still be necessary to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

6. Does family history play a role in developing cardiomegaly?

Yes, family history can play a role in the development of cardiomegaly. Some underlying conditions associated with heart enlargements, such as certain forms of cardiomyopathy or congenital heart defects, can have a genetic component. If there is a family history of heart disease or cardiomegaly, it is important to inform healthcare providers for proper evaluation and monitoring.

7. How long does recovery take after heart surgery for cardiomegaly?

The recovery period after heart surgery for cardiomegaly varies depending on the specific procedure performed, the individual's overall health, and the presence of any complications. Generally, it can take several weeks to months for a full recovery. Rehabilitation programs and follow-up appointments with healthcare providers play a crucial role in monitoring progress and ensuring a successful recovery.

8. Can pregnancy worsen heart enlargement?

Pregnancy can put additional strain on the heart due to the increased demands of circulation. In individuals with pre-existing cardiomegaly or underlying heart conditions, pregnancy can potentially worsen heart enlargement. It is important for individuals with cardiomegaly to consult with their healthcare provider before planning a pregnancy to assess any potential risks and ensure appropriate management.

9. Is cardiomegaly more common in men or women?

Cardiomegaly can affect both men and women. The prevalence may vary depending on the underlying causes, such as hypertension or coronary artery disease, which may have different gender distributions. It is essential to recognise that anyone, regardless of gender, can develop cardiomegaly, and early detection and management are important for both sexes.

10. Can stress contribute to heart enlargement?

Chronic stress can indirectly contribute to heart enlargement by increasing blood pressure and heart rate over time. Prolonged periods of stress can place additional strain on the heart, potentially leading to cardiac remodelling and enlargement. Stress management techniques, such as relaxation exercises and seeking support, can help reduce the impact of stress on heart health.

Reviewed by Dr. Amit Malik, Director and Coordinator, Interventional Cardiology - Electrophysiology, Cardiac Sciences, Cardiology, Cardiac Electrophysiology-Pacemaker on 27-July-2023.

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