02/01/2026
An enlarged heart doesn’t mean a stronger heart.
It usually means the heart is under stress.
🫀 What is an enlarged heart (cardiomegaly)?
Cardiomegaly means the heart is larger than normal. This happens when the heart muscle thickens or the chambers stretch, often because the heart has been working harder than it should.
⚠️ Why it matters:
An enlarged heart may not pump blood efficiently. Over time, this can increase the risk of heart failure, abnormal heart rhythms, blood clots, or stroke.
🔍 Common causes include:
• High blood pressure
• Coronary artery disease
• Heart valve disease
• Cardiomyopathy (heart muscle disease)
• Previous heart attack
• Infections of the heart
• Pregnancy-related stress on the heart
• Thyroid disease or anemia
🩺 Possible symptoms:
Shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, swelling in the legs or feet, and irregular heartbeat. Some people may have no symptoms at all.
🛠️ How is it managed?
An enlarged heart is not a disease by itself — treatment focuses on the underlying cause. Management may include:
✔️ Medications to reduce strain on the heart
✔️ Blood pressure and heart rhythm control
✔️ Reducing salt and fluid intake
✔️ Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking and limiting alcohol
✔️ Devices or procedures (such as pacemakers or valve repair) when needed
✔️ Regular monitoring and follow-ups
💡 The takeaway:
With early diagnosis and proper treatment, an enlarged heart can often be managed — and sometimes improved.
❤️ Taking care of your heart today protects your future health.
Read more - https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21490-enlarged-heart-cardiomegaly