How to treat an enlarged heart to make it smaller

Treatment for an enlarged heart aims to control the underlying condition and promote reduction in heart size, with specific approaches varying depending on the cause and severity of the disease. It is essential to identify the underlying cause of cardiac enlargement, such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, or cardiomyopathy. For example, in cases where hypertension leads to an enlarged heart, effective blood pressure control is necessary. This can be achieved through antihypertensive medications such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), which reduce the heart's workload and may gradually lead to a decrease in heart size. If coronary artery disease is the cause, treatment may involve medications to improve myocardial blood supply, and in severe cases, interventional procedures or coronary artery bypass surgery may be required.

For cardiomyopathy, treatment options include medications that help reverse adverse myocardial remodeling, as well as management of complications such as arrhythmias. Additionally, patients should adopt lifestyle modifications, including a low-salt, low-fat diet, moderate physical activity, avoiding excessive fatigue and emotional stress, and quitting smoking and alcohol consumption.

If you experience any heart-related discomfort, seek medical attention promptly.