What causes an enlarged heart?
HEART HEALTH
An enlarged heart, also known as cardiomegaly, is a condition where the heart becomes larger than its normal size. This enlargement can be temporary or permanent, depending on the underlying cause. There are several factors that can contribute to an enlarged heart, including:
High blood pressure (hypertension): Consistently high blood pressure puts additional stress on the heart, causing it to work harder. Over time, this can lead to the thickening and enlargement of the heart muscle, particularly the left ventricle, which is responsible for pumping blood throughout the body.
Heart valve disease: Heart valves regulate blood flow within the heart. If they become damaged or diseased, they may not function properly, causing the heart to work harder to compensate. This added workload can lead to an enlarged heart.
Cardiomyopathy: This is a group of diseases that affect the heart muscle, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood effectively. There are several types of cardiomyopathy, including dilated cardiomyopathy (where the heart chambers become enlarged), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (thickening of the heart muscle), and restrictive cardiomyopathy (stiffening of the heart muscle).
Congenital heart defects: Some people are born with structural abnormalities in their hearts, which can result in an enlarged heart. These defects may cause the heart to work harder to pump blood, leading to enlargement over time.
Myocarditis: Inflammation of the heart muscle, usually caused by a viral infection, can lead to an enlarged heart. Myocarditis can weaken the heart muscle, causing it to enlarge as it struggles to pump blood effectively.
Heart failure: This is a chronic condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently. As the heart struggles to meet the body's needs, it may become enlarged. Heart failure can be caused by various factors, including coronary artery disease, hypertension, and heart valve problems.
Anemia: A lack of healthy red blood cells can cause the heart to work harder to deliver oxygen to the body, leading to an enlarged heart.
Thyroid disorders: Both hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) can affect heart function and lead to an enlarged heart.
Obesity: Excess body weight places additional strain on the heart, which may cause it to enlarge over time.
Fluid overload: An excessive amount of fluid in the body can cause the heart to work harder to pump blood, leading to an enlarged heart. This can be due to kidney problems, high sodium intake, or other conditions.
It is essential to identify and treat the underlying cause of an enlarged heart to prevent further complications. Treatment may include medications, lifestyle changes, or surgical interventions, depending on the specific cause and severity of the condition.