As a medical professional with expertise in cardiology, I can tell you that an enlarged heart, also known as cardiomegaly, can indeed lead to serious health complications and in some cases, it can be fatal. The condition is often a sign of an underlying health issue such as heart failure, high blood pressure, or congenital heart defects. When the heart becomes enlarged, it may not pump blood as effectively, which can lead to a shortage of blood and oxygen to the rest of the body.

The severity of the condition and the risk of death depend on several factors, including the underlying cause, the degree of enlargement, and how well the individual's body compensates for the changes. Treatment typically involves addressing the root cause and managing symptoms to improve heart function and overall quality of life.

Here are some potential complications of an enlarged heart that can be life-threatening:


1. Heart failure: The heart's inability to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.

2. Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias): These can lead to a rapid or irregular heartbeat that disrupts the heart's ability to pump effectively.

3. Blood clots: An enlarged heart can form clots that may travel to the brain, causing a stroke.

4. Sudden cardiac death: In some cases, an enlarged heart can lead to a sudden and unexpected heart stoppage.

It's important to note that not all cases of cardiomegaly are fatal, and with proper medical care and management, many people can lead relatively normal lives.

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About a quarter involved a condition called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which causes an enlarged heart. About 20 percent were from a blow to the chest, such as being hit by a bat or ball. Maron said many of the cardiac diseases that can lead to sudden death can be spotted through screening. "It's not perfect.read more >>