What does right atrial enlargement mean?
Dec 03, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
Right atrial hypertrophy refers to enlargement of the right atrium caused by chronic ischemia or increased pressure, commonly resulting from conditions such as atrial septal defect, valvular heart disease, and pulmonary hypertension. In addition to these common causes, other possible diseases—such as chronic obstructive emphysema—can also lead to right atrial hypertrophy. Given the variety of potential causes, a thorough medical evaluation at a hospital is necessary, followed by symptom-specific treatment under a doctor's guidance.
Right atrial hypertrophy refers to enlargement of the right atrium caused by chronic ischemia or increased pressure, usually resulting from conditions such as atrial septal defect, valvular heart disease, or pulmonary hypertension.
1. Atrial Septal Defect
Blood from the left atrium flows into the right atrium along the pressure gradient. Over time, this increases the workload on the right atrium, leading to its enlargement. Symptoms may include fatigue, heart murmurs, and recurrent respiratory infections.
2. Valvular Heart Disease
The tricuspid valve controls blood flow from the right atrium to the right ventricle. Severe tricuspid regurgitation causes blood to flow backward, increasing the burden on the right atrium and resulting in right atrial hypertrophy. Symptoms may include lower limb edema. Treatment under a physician's guidance may involve anti-heart failure medications such as cedilanid tablets or digoxin tablets. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be required.
3. Pulmonary Hypertension
In pulmonary hypertension, reduced blood flow from the right ventricle into the pulmonary artery leads to right atrial enlargement. Symptoms may include shortness of breath after exertion, dyspnea, and chest pain. Medications such as beraprost tablets or bosentan tablets may be prescribed under medical supervision.
Besides the above common causes, other conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary emphysema may also contribute. As multiple factors can lead to right atrial hypertrophy, proper diagnosis requires medical evaluation at a hospital, followed by appropriate treatment guided by a physician.
