Valvular Heart Disease

What is Heart Valve Disease?

Valvular Heart Disease, also known as Heart Valve Disease or Valvulopathy, is a condition in which one or more heart valves become damaged, affecting the heart’s normal functioning. This cardiac valve disorder disrupts the heart’s one-way blood flow and causes mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood, leading to compromised circulatory efficiency.

Types of Heart Valve Disease

Valvular Stenosis

The narrowing of the cardiac valves that restricts the normal blood flow is called Valve stenosis. In severe cases, the valve opening becomes so narrow that the rest of the body is deprived of adequate blood supply, which causes immense pressure on the heart. 

Valvular Prolapse

Valvular prolapse is a cardiac condition in which the valve flaps become displaced, preventing the heart valves from closing properly. It can cause blood leakage that disrupts the heart’s normal blood flow.

Valve Regurgitation

Regurgitation occurs when the heart valves don’t close properly, causing backward blood flow. This hindrance to one-way blood circulation reduces the heart’s pumping efficiency and limits its ability to deliver oxygen-rich blood to the body.

Common Causes of Heart Valve Disease

The heart has four chambers – the left & right atria and the left & right ventricles – which regulate blood flow between the heart and the rest of the body. The valves at the exit of each chamber (mitral, tricuspid, aortic, & pulmonary) maintain the smooth, one-way blood circulation. Valvular heart disease develops when one or more of these valves become narrowed, leaky, or fail to regulate the heart’s one-way, continuous blood flow.

Congenital Heart Disease

Some structural valve abnormalities by birth can affect normal blood flow through the heart. If left untreated, these defects can eventually lead to valvular heart disease. 

Cardiomyopathy

Diseases that weaken the heart muscles can alter valvular function and increase the risk of regurgitation, or leaking, of cardiac valves. 

Rheumatic Fever

An inflammatory condition that, if left untreated, can damage the heart muscles and valves. This infection, caused by Streptococcus bacteria, can lead to heart valve degeneration.

Heart Attack

Damage to the cardiac muscles following a heart attack can impair valvular function and disrupt proper blood flow regulation.

Rare Diseases or Infections

Conditions like infective endocarditis or autoimmune disorders can damage heart tissues, leading to inflammation, stiffness, or leakage of the heart valves. 

Coronary Artery Disease

Narrowing of the coronary arteries increases strain on the heart muscles and valves. Over time, this continuous pressure weakens the heart and alters valvular mechanics, eventually leading to valvular heart disease.

Valvular Heart Disease Symptoms

Valvular heart disease often develops asymptotically, and its early signs can be mistaken for fatigue or ageing. However, a heart murmur during a routine check-up may indicate heart valve defects. Common signs may include:

If you recognise any of these signs, book a consultation today and let our specialists assess your heart health with expert care.

Diagnostic Approach to VHD at The National Heart Clinic

A comprehensive diagnosis is the first step to protecting your heart. Our cardiac valvular disease specialists analyse your symptoms, perform a thorough physical exam to investigate any fluid buildup in the lungs and swelling in your body, and listen to your heartbeat with a stethoscope. Any unusual indication may demand a comprehensive assessment through one or more diagnostic tests, such as 

How Our VHD Consultants Manage Your Condition?

Choosing the treatment option for heart valve defects depends on the severity of the condition. Mild problems can be managed by simply making some lifestyle adjustments. However, acute or symptomatic conditions may need medication to relieve pressure on your heart, control rhythm abnormalities, and improve overall heart health. 

For advanced valvular heart disease, our consultants may recommend heart valve repair or replacement surgery. You will be guided through every step to make informed decisions about essential cardiac care.

Book a Private Consultation Today

Book an appointment with a valvular heart disease specialist for expert assessment, accurate diagnosis, and a personalised treatment plan.

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