Cor pulmonale, meaning “pulmonary heart” in Latin, is a condition where the right side of the heart (the ventricle that pumps blood into the lungs) becomes enlarged and can fail due to chronic high blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries (pulmonary hypertension). This high pressure is often caused by lung diseases that obstruct blood flow or increase resistance in the lungs.
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
Cause:
Cor pulmonale is primarily caused by lung diseases that lead to pulmonary hypertension. Common causes include:
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): The most frequent cause, COPD can cause narrowing of airways and scarring, leading to high pressure in the pulmonary arteries.
Pulmonary Embolism: A blood clot that travels to the lungs can cause sudden and severe cor pulmonale.
Interstitial Lung Diseases: Scarring or inflammation of the lungs can also increase pulmonary pressure.
Other lung conditions: Sleep apnea, and other lung conditions can also contribute.
Mechanism:
When the right ventricle has to pump against higher-than-normal pressure in the pulmonary arteries, it has to work harder, leading to enlargement and eventually failure.
Symptoms:
Cor pulmonale can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
Shortness of breath: This is a common early symptom, particularly during activity.
Fatigue: The heart’s reduced efficiency can lead to tiredness.
Swelling: Fluid can accumulate in the legs and ankles due to the heart’s inability to pump blood effectively.
Chest pain or discomfort: Pressure and strain on the heart can cause chest pain.
Fast heartbeat: The heart may beat faster to compensate for the increased workload.
Other symptoms: Fainting, wheezing, cough, and bluish lips or fingers (cyanosis) may also occur.
Diagnosis:
Doctors use various tests to diagnose cor pulmonale, including:
Echocardiogram: This ultrasound of the heart can show the size and function of the right ventricle.
Radionuclide imaging: This test can assess heart function.
Right heart catheterization: A procedure where a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel and into the heart to measure pressures and assess function.