What does 'cardiomegaly' refer to?

Cardiomegaly refers specifically to an enlarged heart. This condition may occur due to various underlying factors, such as high blood pressure, heart valve disease, or heart muscle disease, and can be a sign of other health problems. It is often diagnosed through imaging techniques like an echocardiogram or chest X-ray, which can reveal an increase in heart size. Recognition of cardiomegaly is crucial because it can indicate that the heart is working harder than normal to pump blood, which may lead to further complications if not addressed. Understanding this term is important for anyone studying medical terminology or involved in healthcare documentation.