Cor pulmonale, also known as right-sided heart failure, is an increase in bulk of, or other structural or functional change in, the heart's right ventricle. It is generally associated with failure of the right side of the heart, as its second name implies, however in some cases it does not lead to right heart failure.

Causes

Chronic bronchitis
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Emphysema
End stage pneumoconiosis
Lung fibrosis
Neuromuscular disease
Obstructive sleep apnea
Pierre Robin syndrome
Pulmonary embolism
Respiratory disease affecting lung circulatory system
Respiratory distress syndrome
Sarcoidosis

Symptoms

Some of the signs and symptoms which may be present in cor pulmonale include:

Abdominal swelling
Chest pain / discomfort (upper)
Chronic cough
Edema (swelling)
Enlarged heart
Fainting
Fatigue
Kidney problems
Liver problems
Palpitations
Shortness of breath
Weakness
Wheezing

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cor pulmonale is made by a doctor or medical professional, with common methods including chest X-ray, echocardiogram (ECG), and electrocardiogram (EKG).

Treatment

Cor pulmonale treatment methods may include:

Antibiotics (for respiratory infection
Anticoagulants
Cardiac glycoside
Diet changes
Diuretics
Inotropes
Nitrates
Oxygen therapy
Phlebotomy
Phosphodiesterase inhibitors
Resolving the underlying condition