What does it mean to have an enlarged heart?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 24-year-old male who weighs 171 pounds and is 5 feet 9 inches tall. I do not consume alcohol, but I smoke two cigarettes per day. For the past few years, I have felt that my heartbeats are very strong; I can feel my heartbeat all the time. I have already consulted three cardiologists about this problem. I underwent an ultrasound of the heart and an echocardiogram, and the reports indicated that my heart had thickened to 11 mm. The doctors told me that this was the result of weightlifting and that my heart was normal. All the other tests came back negative. So, why do I feel my heartbeat while resting? I do not eat heavy meals, and my doctor informed me that I am hypertensive. What does having an enlarged heart mean?

Please advise.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

You are feeling your heartbeats because of your enlarged and thickened heart. Thickening of the heart is typically seen in athletes. The heart size increases to cope with the increased stress; this is known as physiological cardiac hypertrophy. As a result, the heart beats strongly and at a slower pace, making you more aware of the heartbeat. A thickness of 11 mm is acceptable for hypertrophy, so there is no need to worry. However, you should try to quit smoking, as smoking tends to aggravate the condition.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.