Valvular heart disease overview
Valvular heart disease may be caused by valve narrowing (stenosis) causing variable degrees of blood flow restriction or by valve leaking (regurgitation) causing blood flow to move in the opposite direction.
What causes valvular heart disease?
There are several causes of valvular heart disease, heart valve disease may be present at birth (congenital). It can also occur in adults due to many causes and conditions, such as infections and other heart conditions.
Valvular heart diseases are more prevalent with advancing age.
Specific valvular heart diseases have specific risk factors; including:
Kidney disease
Smoking
Diabetes
Radiation therapy
Prior surgery
Prior trauma
Genetic predisposition
Valvular heart disease symptoms
Some people with heart valve disease might not experience symptoms for many years until the condition is quite advanced. Symptoms of heart valve disease may include:
Fatigue
Inability to exercise
Inability to lay flat
Palpitations
Leg swelling
Fainting spells
Difficulty breathing
Chest pain
Swollen abdomen
Valvular heart disease diagnosis
Your doctor will ask you a detailed past medical history and perform a physical examination. An electrocardiogram (EKG) and an echocardiogram are advisable. Occasionally, a transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is indicated. In certain situations, a heart catheterization may be necessary.
Valvular heart disease management
Management depends on the severity of your heart valve disease and the how it’s affecting your quality of life.
Management may include medication to prevent or control symptoms and procedures for definitive correction of your valve problem.
Get screened for valvular heart disease, click below or call (239) 300–0586