Cardiomegaly: The Increasing Burden on Heart Health 

Cardiomegaly is commonly known as an enlarged heart. This problem is increasingly prevalent in India owing to lifestyle changes & rising cases of heart diseases. As per a year-2021 report by the Indian-Council-of-Medical-Research (ICMR), heart diseases, including conditions like cardiomegaly, tend to account for almost 28 percent of all deaths in our country. This alarming statistic emphasizes the dire need for awareness about cardiomegaly symptoms & timely medical intervention for the same.

 

The Silent Strain on Your Heart – Cardiomegaly! 

Cardiomegaly tends to refer to an enlargement of the heart. This often signals an underlying health condition rather than being a disease in itself. The heart becomes bigger owing to several factors like high BP, heart valve disease, or cardiomyopathy. When the heart tends to enlarge, it struggles to pump blood properly. This potentially results in further complications if left untreated. Recognising cardiomegaly symptoms early on is crucial, as it allows patients to seek medical help before much more serious complications turn up.

 

Understanding Cardiomegaly Symptoms 

The symptoms of cardiomegaly can vary depending on the underlying cause & severity of the condition of the patient. Some people might not experience any symptoms at all, while others might face severe issues. If you notice any of the cardiomegaly symptoms mentioned below, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis & timely treatment. These common cardiomegaly symptoms include the ones described underneath:

• Fatigue & weakness
• Shortness of breath, specifically during any physical activity or even while lying flat
• Swelling in the ankles, legs, & feet (edema)
• Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
• Dizziness or fainting
• Constant cough or chest pain
• Difficulty in breathing while sleeping

 

Enlarged Heart Causes

Several factors can result in cardiomegaly, with the most common enlarged heart causes being the ones given below:

• High BP When the heart works harder like in hypertension to pump blood against this increased pressure, it can enlarge over time.
• Arrhythmias: Irregular heartbeat may result in an enlarged heart if this condition persists over time.
• Cardiomyopathy: This is a problem of the heart muscle that weakens & enlarges the heart.
• Heart valve disease: Defective heart valves may force the heart to pump harder, resulting in its enlargement.
• Coronary artery disease: Reduced blood flow to the heart muscle owing to blockages can lead to an enlarged heart.
• Congenital heart defects: Some people are born with heart abnormalities that can cause cardiomegaly.
• Thyroid disorders: Overactive/underactive thyroid glands may cause heart problems, like enlargement.
• Anemia: Severe anemia can make the heart pump more blood, resulting in cardiomegaly.

 

Cardiomegaly Diagnosis

Diagnosing cardiomegaly needs a thorough investigation. This includes checking of medical history, physical examination, & a battery of diagnostic tests. Early & accurate cardiomegaly diagnosis is crucial for starting the right treatment plan & preventing further complications. Common methods of cardiomegaly diagnosis include the below mentioned ones:

• Chest X-ray: A basic test for checking the heart size.
• Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart, which is done to assess its function & structure.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): Records the electrical activity of the heart. This is for detecting any abnormalities.
• Cardiac MRI: This provides detailed images of the structure of the heart.
• CT scan: This offers precise cross-sectional images of the heart & chest.
• Blood tests: These are to identify any underlying conditions like thyroid disorders and/or infections.

 

When to Seek Medical Attention?

It is essential to understand when to seek medical attention for cardiomegaly to prevent the condition from worsening. If you or any of your close ones have been experiencing persistent cardiomegaly symptoms like shortness of breath, unexplained fatigue, chest pain, swelling in the abdomen or legs, or irregular heartbeat, it is important to consult a healthcare professional quickly. Also, if you have a history of heart disease(s), high BP, or any condition that puts strain on the heart, regular check-ups & early screening for heart enlargement are crucial. Prompt medical intervention can prevent serious complications like arrhythmias, heart failure, or stroke, which are common consequences of untreated cardiomegaly. Early diagnosis & right treatment well in time can considerably improve outcomes & protect your heart from further damage. 

 

Cardiomegaly Treatment

The treatment of cardiomegaly depends on its underlying causes & severity. If detected early, cardiomegaly treatment can considerably enhance the quality of life & reduce the risk of heart failure or sudden cardiac events. Common approaches to cardiomegaly treatment include the following:

• Medicines: Drugs like ACE inhibitors, diuretics, beta-blockers, & anticoagulants are usually given to manage symptoms & prevent complications.
• Surgeries: In cases of severe cardiomegaly caused by valve disease or congenital defects, surgical interventions might be needed.
• Lifestyle changes: Maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, & quitting smoking can help manage & prevent cardiomegaly.
• Pacemaker or ICD implantation: For patients with arrhythmias or heart failure, these devices can help in regulating the heart’s rhythm.

 

Cardiomegaly Complications

If left untreated, cardiomegaly can result in serious health complications. So, recognizing cardiomegaly symptoms early & getting timely treatment can help prevent these life-threatening complications. Common cardiomegaly complications include the below given ones:

• Heart failure: The heart might become very weak to pump blood properly. This may result in fluid buildup in the lungs & other parts of the patient’s body.
• Blood clots: Enlarged hearts are more susceptible to blood clots. These can result in strokes or heart attacks.
• Arrhythmias: Irregular heartbeat can cause fainting, dizziness, or even sudden cardiac arrest.
• Heart valve damage: Over time, an enlarged heart may strain the valves. This may result in leakages or dysfunctioning.

 

Cardiomegaly Prevention

Preventing cardiomegaly tends to involve managing risk factors & leading a heart-healthy lifestyle. By adopting these cardiomegaly prevention strategies, you can lower your risk of developing an enlarged heart & any other related complication. These key strategies for cardiomegaly prevention include the ones stated below:

• Controlling BP: Regularly monitoring & managing your BP is crucial to reduce the strain on your heart.
• Maintaining a healthy weight: Obesity increases the risk of heart diseases. This may also result in cardiomegaly.
• Exercising regularly: Engage in moderate physical activity to keep your heart healthy & strong.
• Eating a heart-healthy diet: Concentrate more on consuming fruits, veggies, whole grains, & lean proteins while avoiding excessive salt & unhealthy fats.
• Avoiding smoking & excessive alcohol: Both smoking & heavy alcohol intake can damage the heart. This may also increase your risk of heart’s enlargement.

 

Cardiomegaly Treatment in India and Its Cost Comparison with the Outer World

India is becoming a global hub for affordable & quality heart treatments, including cardiomegaly. Cardiomegaly treatment in India is considerably less expensive compared to developed countries. For example, a heart surgery in India can cost less, while the same procedure might cost pretty hefty in the US or in Europe. This price advantage, along with first-rate healthcare facilities here, makes India a sought-after destination for medical travel.

 

Health Trawell: Your Gateway to Cardiomegaly Treatment in India

When it comes to medical touring to India, Health Trawell is the number one choice for patients seeking quality, affordable treatments. With our extensive network of top hospitals & experienced doctors, we ensure that foreign patients get the best care for conditions like cardiomegaly. As a full-service medical travel agency, our team at Health Trawell guides you through the entire process, from selecting the right doctor to post-treatment follow-ups.

 

Medical Travel Services Offered by Health Trawell

By choosing Health Trawell, you ensure a tension-free medical experience with access to top-tier healthcare in India. At Health Trawell, we provide a full range of comprehensive services to make your medical journey easy & comfortable. These services include the ones stated underneath:

• Pre-travel consultation: Detailed discussions to understand your specific medical requirements & suggest the best treatment options.
• Doctor & hospital selection: Guidance on selecting top doctors & hospitals in India based on your condition.
• Visa assistance: Helping you obtain a medical visa quickly & easily.
• Travel & accommodation arrangements: Coordinating flights, hotels, & local transportation during your stay.
• Interpreter services: Ensuring clear communication with most of the medical staff for non-English speakers.
• Post-treatment follow-up: Regular check-ins & follow-ups after you return home to ensure your smooth recovery & complete well-being.

 

Contact Health Trawell for Cardiomegaly Treatment in Our Country!

If you or a loved one is experiencing cardiomegaly symptoms or seeking treatment for an enlarged heart, don’t hesitate to contact Health Trawell. With our expertise in medical travel & access to premier healthcare facilities here, our team can assist you in finding the right treatment at an affordable cost here. Take control of your heart health today by reaching out to Health Trawell for the best cardiomegaly treatment in India.