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Right ventricular enlargement

Updated
Right ventricular enlargement

Deep Dive

Going into detail on what this term means and how it relates to health guidelines. This article may be incomplete.

Right Ventricular Enlargement is a condition characterized by an increase in the size of the right ventricle of the heart. This enlargement can occur due to various underlying factors, such as increased pressure or volume overload on the right side of the heart, pulmonary hypertension, chronic lung diseases, congenital heart defects, or other cardiac conditions.

When the right ventricle enlarges, it can affect the heart's ability to pump blood effectively to the lungs for oxygenation. This can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, decreased exercise tolerance, and in severe cases, fluid accumulation in the body (edema). Right ventricular enlargement is often detected through imaging studies like echocardiography or cardiac MRI, which allow healthcare providers to assess the size and function of the heart chambers accurately.

Management of right ventricular enlargement focuses on treating the underlying cause of the enlargement and addressing any associated conditions that may be contributing to the problem. This can involve medications to reduce pulmonary hypertension, improve heart function, or manage fluid retention. In some cases, interventions like catheter-based procedures or surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure on the right ventricle and improve overall heart function. Regular monitoring and follow-up with healthcare providers are essential to ensure optimal management of right ventricular enlargement and to prevent complications.


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