Cardiac enlargement, also known as cardiomegaly, is a medical condition in which the heart becomes larger than its normal size. The word is spelled as /ˈkɑː.di.æk ɪnˈlɑːdʒ.mənt/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "car" is pronounced with a long "a" sound, followed by the "d" sound in "duh". The second syllable "diac" is pronounced with a long "i" sound, followed by the "k" sound. The final two syllables "enlargement" are pronounced as they are spelled. The word is commonly used in medical settings to describe heart disease or other related conditions.
Cardiac enlargement, also known as cardiomegaly, is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal increase in the size and volume of the heart. It refers to the enlargement of one or more chambers of the heart due to various underlying causes or diseases. The heart may become larger both in length and width, resulting in an overall increase in its mass.
There are different causes of cardiac enlargement, including hypertension (high blood pressure), heart valve diseases, diseases of the heart muscle (such as cardiomyopathy), heart defects present from birth, and prolonged exposure to certain toxins or drugs. Other factors such as obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain infections may contribute to this condition as well.
The enlargement of the heart can lead to a reduced ability of the heart to effectively pump blood and perform its vital functions. Symptoms of cardiac enlargement may include shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, palpitations, and fluid retention in the legs and ankles.
Treatment options for cardiac enlargement depend on the underlying cause and severity. Medications, lifestyle changes, and surgery may be recommended to manage the condition and prevent further complications. Regular monitoring and follow-up with a healthcare professional are important to monitor the progression of the condition and adjust treatment as necessary.
The term "cardiac" comes from the Greek word "kardia", meaning "heart". "Enlargement" originates from the Latin word "enlargire", which means "to make larger". Thus, "cardiac enlargement" refers to the condition where the heart increases in size, often due to various factors such as disease or physiological stress.