Heart Valve Disease
Also known as: Valvular Heart Disease
Heart valve disease occurs when one or more of the heart's four valves fail to function properly, disrupting the flow of blood through the heart chambers. The heart valves regulate the flow of blood by opening and closing with each heartbeat, ensuring that blood flows in the correct direction. Heart valve disease can affect any of the heart's four valves: the mitral valve, tricuspid valve, aortic valve, and pulmonary valve. Common types of heart valve disease include valve stenosis (narrowing) and valve regurgitation (leakage).
What are the symptoms of Heart Valve Disease?
The symptoms of heart valve disease can vary depending on the type and severity of the valve dysfunction, as well as individual factors such as age, overall health, and the presence of other heart conditions. Common symptoms may include:
Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or when lying flat.
Fatigue or weakness, particularly with exertion.
Chest pain or discomfort, often occurring during physical activity or when the heart is working harder.
Palpitations or irregular heartbeats.
Swelling (edema) in the abdomen, legs, ankles, or feet.
Dizziness or fainting (syncope), particularly with exertion or when changing position.
Rapid or irregular pulse (arrhythmia).
How is Heart Valve Disease diagnosed?
Diagnosis of heart valve disease typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, which may include:
Auscultation:
Listening to the heart sounds using a stethoscope to detect abnormal heart murmurs or other sounds indicative of valve dysfunction.
Echocardiogram:
This non-invasive ultrasound test uses sound waves to create images of the heart's structure and function, helping healthcare providers assess the valves' integrity, movement, and function.
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG):
This non-invasive test records the electrical activity of the heart and can detect abnormalities suggestive of heart valve disease or associated arrhythmias.
Chest X-ray:
This imaging test may reveal changes in the heart's size or shape, as well as signs of fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary congestion) associated with heart valve disease.
Cardiac Catheterisation:
This invasive procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible tube (catheter) into a blood vessel and guiding it to the heart to measure blood pressure, obtain blood samples, and assess blood flow through the heart chambers and valves.
How is Heart Valve Disease treated?
Treatment for heart valve disease aims to relieve symptoms, prevent complications, and improve overall heart function. Treatment options may include:
Medications:
Medications may be prescribed to relieve Medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms, control blood pressure, prevent blood clots, and reduce the workload on the heart., lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, prevent blood clots, and reduce the workload on the heart.
Valve Repair or Replacement:
Depending on the type and severity of valve dysfunction, surgical procedures may be performed to repair the damaged valve or replace it with a mechanical or biological (tissue) prosthetic valve.
Transcatheter Valve Interventions:
Minimally invasive procedures, such as transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) or transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR), may be considered for certain patients who are not candidates for traditional open-heart surgery.
Watchful Waiting:
In some cases, particularly if the valve disease is mild or stable, a conservative approach may be recommended, with regular monitoring and lifestyle modifications to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
Individuals with heart valve disease should work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a personalised treatment plan based on their specific valve condition, symptoms, overall health, and treatment goals. Regular follow-up appointments and monitoring are important for assessing treatment effectiveness, detecting any changes in valve function, and addressing any new or worsening symptoms promptly. Early detection and appropriate management of heart valve disease are essential for optimising outcomes and improving quality of life.
Ensuring your heart's well-being is our utmost priority.
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