What are the risks associated with cardiac hypertrophy in the elderly?
Disease description:
My grandfather is quite elderly, and the doctor mentioned that he has an enlarged heart. What are the risks associated with an enlarged heart in older adults?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Tian Hongbo
The main risks of cardiac hypertrophy in the elderly include:
1. Cardiac hypertrophy may lead to arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia. These abnormal heart rhythms not only increase the workload on the heart but may also trigger serious complications such as stroke.
2. Pulmonary hypertension: Cardiac enlargement may increase the workload on the right ventricle, leading to pulmonary hypertension. This condition may present with symptoms such as dyspnea and fatigue, and if left untreated for a prolonged period, it can result in right ventricular hypertrophy and heart failure.
3. Cardiac hypertrophy reduces the efficiency of the heart's pumping action, leading to decreased cardiac output and affecting blood supply to systemic organs, which may result in heart failure. Patients may experience symptoms such as dyspnea, fatigue, and edema, significantly impacting quality of life.
4. Angina and myocardial infarction: Cardiac hypertrophy may compress surrounding tissues, including the coronary arteries, causing angina. At the same time, cardiac hypertrophy increases the heart's workload and reduces blood supply, potentially leading to myocardial infarction.
If cardiac hypertrophy is detected, timely medical consultation is recommended.
