Cardiomegaly

Updated: 2024-01-05

Description

An enlarged heart, which is a symptom of another condition, not a disease.

Overview

Cardiomegaly is caused by damage to the heart muscle or anything that makes the heart work harder. Heart diseases such as heart conditions present at birth, heart attack and heart valve disease can cause the heart to get larger and weaker. Pregnancy also can cause cardiomegaly.

Symptoms

Symptoms, if any, may include shortness of breath, swelling called edema in the belly or legs, and an irregular heartbeat.

Treatments

Treatment depends on the cause. Treatment may include medicines, medical procedures or surgery.