Heart valve disease refers to any condition affecting one or more of the heart valves. The heart has four valves – the mitral, tricuspid, aortic, and pulmonary valves – which are essential for directing blood flow through the heart's four chambers. These valves open and close with each heartbeat, ensuring that blood flows in the right direction at the right time.
In heart valve disease, one or more valves don't work properly. This can be due to several factors:
Valvular Stenosis: This occurs when a valve doesn't fully open due to stiff or fused leaflets. The narrowed opening restricts blood flow.
Valvular Insufficiency (Regurgitation): This happens when a valve doesn’t close properly, allowing blood to leak backward.
The causes of heart valve disease can be congenital (present at birth), degenerative (related to aging or wear and tear), or due to other conditions like rheumatic fever or infections. Symptoms may include breathlessness, fatigue, irregular heartbeat, swollen feet or ankles, and chest pain.
Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam, listening to the heart with a stethoscope, and imaging tests like echocardiography or cardiac MRI. Treatment can range from medications to manage symptoms to surgical interventions like valve repair or replacement.
It's important for people with heart valve disease to have regular medical follow-ups to monitor their condition and manage any potential complications.