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Question:
Can an enlarged heart be reversed?
I have had a bad case of bronchitis for several days. I went to the doctor because I was concerned about pneumonia and the x-ray showed I have an enlarged heart. I had an x-ray two years ago and nothing showed up. I am concerned as my mother had heart disease. My doctor started me on antibiotics for 5 days because of my bronchitis. Everything is in limbo right now and I am concerned about the problems associated with it, and what I need to do. Can it be reversed?
submitted by Sally, from Lake Nebagamon, Wisconsin, on 11/7/09
Answer:
by Texas Heart Institute cardiologist, Guilherme V. Silva, MD
Sally, An enlarged heart on chest x-ray usually means that the heart is weaker than normal and is not pumping blood forward as it should. Fortunately, this is not always the case and further detailed investigation is needed. First you would need to see a cardiologist to confirm that your heart is enlarged and likely have an ultrasound exam of the heart (2D echocardiogram). A 2D echocardiogram will settle the matter straight. Once diagnosed with an enlarged heart, the cause needs to be investigated. Only then would we know what to expect in the future (if it is reversible or not). Hope that helps.
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Updated November 2009
