The disease where your heart is too big is called cardiomegaly. This condition occurs when the heart muscle thickens or stretches, making the heart larger than normal.
Causes of Cardiomegaly
Cardiomegaly can be caused by various factors, including:
- High blood pressure: This condition forces the heart to work harder, leading to enlargement.
- Coronary artery disease: Narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the heart, causing the heart muscle to thicken.
- Heart valve disease: Damaged valves can cause the heart to work harder, leading to enlargement.
- Congenital heart defects: These are heart problems present at birth that can cause cardiomegaly.
- Certain infections: Some infections, such as myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle), can cause cardiomegaly.
Symptoms of Cardiomegaly
The symptoms of cardiomegaly vary depending on the underlying cause and severity. Some common symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath: This is a common symptom, especially during exertion.
- Fatigue: You may feel tired and weak.
- Swelling in the legs and ankles: This can be a sign of heart failure.
- Irregular heartbeat: This can be a sign of a heart rhythm problem.
- Chest pain: This can be a sign of a heart attack.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Cardiomegaly is typically diagnosed through a physical examination, electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, and other tests. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity. Treatment options may include medications, lifestyle changes, and surgery.
