What does it mean to have an enlarged left atrium and thickened interventricular septum, and what should be done about it?
May 26, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
Left atrial enlargement and ventricular septal thickening may be caused by myocarditis, hypertension, chronic pneumonia, or other reasons, and can be improved with medication or surgical treatment. In addition to the above causes, they may also result from coronary atherosclerotic heart disease, pulmonary embolism, myocardial infarction, or other conditions. If localized lesions are present, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital for diagnosis and treatment by a qualified physician.
Left atrial enlargement and ventricular septal thickening may be caused by conditions such as myocarditis, hypertension, and chronic pneumonia. These conditions can be improved with medication or surgical interventions. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Myocarditis
Myocarditis leads to impaired myocardial function and reduced cardiac contractility, resulting in inadequate blood ejection. This increases the heart's workload. As cardiac load rises, the left atrium requires more blood filling, leading to localized changes. Patients may take furosemide tablets or hydrochlorothiazide tablets as prescribed by a physician.
2. Hypertension
Hypertension can cause cardiac hypertrophy, particularly left ventricular hypertrophy. When the left ventricle becomes thickened, the left atrium must work harder to ensure sufficient blood flow into the left ventricle, which may lead to left atrial enlargement. Patients can take medications such as hydrochlorothiazide tablets or nifedipine tablets under medical supervision.
3. Chronic Pneumonia
Chronic pneumonia may impair pulmonary gas exchange and increase pulmonary vascular resistance, leading to pulmonary hypertension. When pulmonary hypertension occurs, the load on the left atrium increases, resulting in localized pathological changes. Patients may take levofloxacin hydrochloride capsules or cefaclor capsules as directed by their doctor.
In addition to the above causes, left atrial enlargement and septal thickening may also result from coronary atherosclerotic heart disease, pulmonary embolism, or myocardial infarction. If localized abnormalities are detected, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital for accurate diagnosis and treatment by a qualified physician. The doctor will assess symptoms, perform physical examinations, and order necessary tests to determine the underlying condition and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
