An enlarged heart is a sign of an underlying problem that must be attended to immediately. The heart may grow in size due to stretching or thickening, resulting from coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, or other factors. Regardless of the cause, if one develops the symptoms, one must consult a licensed healthcare professional and seek treatment. Ignoring the problem can force the organ to work harder than usual, which can lead to complications.

Can an unborn child be affected by enlarged heart – symptoms?

• Yes, enlarged heart symptoms can even be observed in an unborn child.
• This happens if the family (the parents) of the unborn child have a history of any kind of a heart ailment.
• Sometimes, as a precaution, doctors may conduct a test, where they use the images of the baby’s heart to ascertain whether the heart is functioning correctly or not.

What are some of the different tests performed to ascertain and diagnose heart enlargement?

• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) : It is a type of scan that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the inside of the chest. High-end images of the blood vessels and the heart are then monitored.
• Angiography : For existing heart patients who have stents and pacemakers, this test is used. It shows the arteries of the leg, abdomen, and the pelvis area.
• Testing stress levels : Here, a person is put through an exercise regime, and medicine is administered so that their heart rate can increase in the correct manner.
• EKG : This test is mostly used in conjunction with the stress levels test. This test measures the activity of the heart. This reveals which parts of the heart are over utilized and helps know the cause of heart enlargement.

What lifestyle changes can help prevent heart enlargement?
In most cases, if enlarged heart symptoms are observed, a proper medical treatment is the most advisable solution. However, there are certain habits that one may incorporate in their day-to-day life to prevent such a condition.

• No smoking : Needless to say, smoking tobacco has a devastating effect on the lungs and heart. If one is finding it hard to quit smoking, they may opt for products that can replace nicotine, and they may even consider therapy.
• Exercise : This is not just a cure but something that will even tone the body. A brief consultation with a doctor can open the doors to some of the best exercises that can help keep heart ailments at bay.
• Weight loss : The body feels refreshed and light after an obese person undergoes weight loss. As far as blood pressure issues that trigger heart enlargement are concerned, weight loss is, without a doubt, a necessary and helpful option.

What are the surgical answers to heart enlargement problems?
Sometimes, enlarged heart – symptoms are such that they necessitate surgery and cannot be helped by other methods of treatment. Here are some surgeries that are performed to relieve one from this condition:

• Bypass surgery : Arteries and veins are grafted using other parts of the body. This kind of a surgery prevents heart attack, provides relief from chest pain, and improves the flow of blood in the body. Recovery after a bypass surgery may take up to 12 weeks.
• Surgery of the valve of the heart : Any critical problems that appear in the valves of the heart are repaired using this surgery. Here, artificial valves may be used to overcome an issue.
• Heart transplant : This is done as a last resort, when enlarged heart symptoms cannot be controlled. The patient has to be kept in the ICU under observation for several weeks.

What kind of complications can heart enlargement cause if it is ignored or not treated on time?

• Chances of heart failure are very high if an enlarged heart goes untreated.
• There could be a formation of blood clots, which could obstruct the heart’s ability to pump blood at all, consequently leading to heart failure.
• When blood flows back into the valves that do not close properly, heart murmurs may arise.
• Sudden and instantaneous death can occur if a blood clot bursts and a heart attack ensues.