Valvular Heart Disease

Causes

Valvular heart disease can be caused by various factors, including:

Congenital heart defects:

Some individuals are born with abnormal heart valves.

Age-related degeneration:

As people age, the valves may become thickened, stiff, or calcified, leading to dysfunction.

Rheumatic fever:

A complication of untreated strep throat, it can cause scarring and damage to the heart valves.

Infective endocarditis:

An infection of the heart valves, often caused by bacteria, can result in valve damage.

Heart conditions:

Other heart conditions, such as coronary artery disease or heart attack, can lead to valvular problems.

Symptoms:

The symptoms of valvular heart disease can vary depending on the specific valve affected and the severity of the condition. Common symptoms may include:

Fatigue and weakness

Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or when lying flat

Chest pain or discomfort

Palpitations or irregular heartbeat

Dizziness or fainting

Swelling in the ankles, feet, or abdomen

Diagnosis:

To diagnose valvular heart disease, healthcare providers may perform several tests, such as:

Physical examination:

Listening to the heart using a stethoscope to detect abnormal heart sounds, known as murmurs.

Echocardiography:

Uses sound waves to create detailed images of the heart and valves, allowing assessment of their structure and function.

Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG):

Records the heart’s electrical activity to identify any abnormalities.

Chest X-ray:

Provides an image of the heart and lung structures.

Cardiac Catheterization:

Invasive procedure involving the insertion of a thin tube into a blood vessel to assess the heart’s blood flow and pressure.

Treatment:

The treatment of valvular heart disease depends on the underlying cause, the severity of symptoms, and the impact on heart function. Treatment options include:

Medications:

Medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms, control blood pressure, prevent blood clots, or reduce fluid buildup.

Valve repair or replacement:

In some cases, the damaged valve can be surgically repaired to restore its normal function. In severe cases, valve replacement surgery may be necessary, where the damaged valve is replaced with a mechanical or biological valve.

Balloon valvuloplasty:

In this procedure, a balloon-tipped catheter is used to widen a narrowed valve by inflating the balloon.

Transcatheter valve therapy (TAVR):

It is a minimally invasive procedure where a replacement valve is inserted without open-heart surgery.

Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is essential for individuals with valvular heart disease to monitor their condition, manage symptoms, and ensure optimal heart health. Early intervention and appropriate treatment can help improve quality of life and prevent complications associated with valvular heart disease.