Which symptom is commonly associated with left atrial enlargement due to mitral stenosis?

Atrial fibrillation is a common symptom associated with left atrial enlargement due to mitral stenosis. In this condition, the mitral valve becomes narrowed, which impedes blood flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle. Consequently, blood backs up in the left atrium, leading to an increase in its size (enlargement).

The enlargement of the left atrium can cause disruptions in the heart's electrical conduction system, predisposing the patient to develop atrial fibrillation. This arrhythmia is characterized by irregular and often rapid heartbeats due to chaotic electrical impulses in the atria, which can result from the stretched and fibrotic tissue of an enlarged atrium.

While other symptoms could be present in various cardiovascular conditions, atrial fibrillation specifically points to the electrical and structural changes occurring as a result of left atrial enlargement in the context of mitral stenosis. This makes it a key symptom to recognize in patients with this condition.