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My daughter has been told that her left atrium is unusually small and that factor is responsible for her rapid heartbeat, occasional dizziness and fatigue. The doctor recommended a high salt intake and drinking a lot of water.
What does all this mean and is it an indicator of possible heart failure later on?
What does all this mean and is it an indicator of possible heart failure later on?
It is difficult to answer your question without more information. Thsi is apparently a congenital anamoly and often the pulmonary vessel and its connection to a small left atrium can be obstructed, etc.
A fast heart rate can be due to the less than normal blood received from the small atrium (reduced capacity for filling) so the heart beats faster to meet the blood/oxygen demand. This could be the underlying cause for fatigue.
The dizziness may be due to a low blood pressure. The salt and water intake will increase the blood pressure. It is difficult to predict the future and the medical significance as there is such a fast advancement in medical technology, etc.
If the condition is serious hasn't there been a discussion of heart transplant or surgery?
If you have more information or any followup questions or comments, you are welcome to respond. Take care, and I wish your daughter well going forward.
A fast heart rate can be due to the less than normal blood received from the small atrium (reduced capacity for filling) so the heart beats faster to meet the blood/oxygen demand. This could be the underlying cause for fatigue.
The dizziness may be due to a low blood pressure. The salt and water intake will increase the blood pressure. It is difficult to predict the future and the medical significance as there is such a fast advancement in medical technology, etc.
If the condition is serious hasn't there been a discussion of heart transplant or surgery?
If you have more information or any followup questions or comments, you are welcome to respond. Take care, and I wish your daughter well going forward.
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