An enlarged heart is when the heart has increased in size. It is usually detected by a physical, imaging test or x-rays. An enlarged heart may also occur when the thickening of the heart muscle because of the work overload.

An enlarged heart may also be an expansion of the heart due to damage that weakens the heart muscle. For example: a heart attack, congestive heart failure and dilated Cardiomyopathy. (a serious disease where the heart muscle becomes inflamed and doesn't work like it should.

An electrocardiogram is used for testing for an enlarged heart. This test is used to see if the heart rate and rhythm are normal or if heart damage has occurred

Some people suffering from an enlarged heart also suffer from mild high blood pressure. For those people the combination of an enlarged heart and delays in the heart's electrical activity can be life threatening. This problem can be corrected with blood pressure medication.

People live with enlarged hearts. As long as you follow your doctor’s advice, you should be able to live somewhat of a normal healthy long life.