According to the American Heart Association, an enlarged heart is identified through physical exam or other diagnostic procedure. It can occur as a result of damage to the heart muscle from heart attack, congestive heart failure and other conditions. A variety of tests or procedures may be needed to diagnose the disease and its cause.
Chest X-Ray
A chest X-ray may be one of the first tests conducted to identify the presence of an enlarged heart. The X-ray allows for viewing of both the heart and lungs, but does not identify the cause of the condition. More advanced tests are often needed to identify the specific cause of the condition, according to the MayoClinic.com.
Electrocardiogram
An electrocardiogram is a diagnostic tool in which electrodes are attached to the skin to measure electrical activity of the heart. Doctors use the results to assist in diagnosis of cardiac disorders, some of which can contribute to an enlarged heart. An electrocardiogram can detect damage from a heart attack or other types of heart disease. The shape, size, time, rate and regularity of the waves provide information about the rhythm of the heart, according to New York-Presbyterian Hospital.
Echocardiogram
Sounds waves are used in an echocardiogram to create video images of the heart to help identify the presence and cause of an enlarged heart. According to MayoClinic.com, the test helps to determine how efficient the heart is pumping. It can also reveal the condition of the heart values and identify any signs of previous heart attack or disease.
Cardiac Computerized Tomography
Cardiac computerized tomography, or CT, scans are useful in capturing cross-sectional images of the heart and chest, revealing possible contributing factors to enlargement of the heart. According to the American Heart Association, CT scans are most beneficial in evaluating aortic diseases, pericardial disease and cardiac masses.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, helps clinicians view the heart as well as any damage from a heart attack and other heart-related defects that may be related to enlargement. MRI is a popular diagnostic tool as it can effectively produce high-resolution images of the heart without requiring biological or contrast agents, according to the American Heart Association.
Cardiac Catheterization
Cardiac catheterization is a slightly more invasive procedure for the diagnosis of an enlarged heart. A catheter is threaded through an artery in the groin to the heart. Pictures of the heart arteries are taken to identify the presence of any blockages. The catheter procedure involves the removal of a small sample of the heart to be analyzed, according to MayoClinic.com. The procedure also measures pressure in the chambers of the heart, which may be helpful in assisting in the diagnosis of an enlarged heart.
