A big heart is not always a happy heart! [Bulletin date: February 15, 2026]
A big heart is
a wonderful thing to have from an emotional and spiritual point of view. However, a physically enlarged heart is a
sign of possible heart disease.
An enlarged
heart, also known as cardiomegaly, may occur due to medical conditions such as
pregnancy, coronary artery disease (blockages), heart valve issues, high blood
pressure, abnormal heart rhythms, and thyroid disease.
When the above conditions occur, an increased stress is placed upon the heart muscle, making it work harder. Since the heart is basically one large muscle, the harder it works the larger it becomes. As the heart muscles become enlarged, the heart can no longer work efficiently.
Often a person with an enlarged heart will have shortness of breath, abnormal heart rhythms (arrythmias), or swelling, most commonly in the hands and feet. If ever these symptoms are noticed, it is important to seek medical attention because the earlier they are treated, the better the results.
It is also important to know what risk factors may be attributed to an enlarged heart. Be sure to share with your physician any personal history of congenital heart disease or heart valve disease, and/or a family history of an enlarged heart.
Most
importantly, maintaining a healthy blood pressure, cholesterol level, and blood
sugar level will also lessen the stress on the heart. Be sure to have these checked regularly!
770-552-6400 x6019
Comments
Post a Comment