how long can someone live with an enlarged heart

The length of time someone can live with an enlarged heart varies widely and depends on several factors including the underlying cause, severity of the enlargement, overall health, and effectiveness of treatment. With proper medical treatment and lifestyle management, many people with an enlarged heart can live for many years with a good quality of life. Some may even experience a reversal in heart size if the underlying cause is addressed early. However, without treatment, an enlarged heart can lead to complications such as heart failure, blood clots, and sudden cardiac arrest, which can significantly shorten lifespan. Early detection, regular follow-up with a cardiologist, medication adherence, and healthy lifestyle changes are key to improving prognosis and longevity. In more severe cases like dilated cardiomyopathy, survival rates indicate about 80% survive one year and roughly 50% survive five years after diagnosis with treatment, while untreated cases have a poorer outlook. Overall, life expectancy with cardiomegaly is individualized, but many can lead full lives with appropriate care.