What are heart valve diseases?
Valvular heart disease involves damage to or a defect in one or more of the heart’s four valves: the aortic, mitral, tricuspid, and pulmonary valves. These valves ensure blood flows in the right direction through the heart and to the rest of the body. When a valve is diseased or damaged, it can disrupt this flow, leading to serious health issues. At Aarogya Heart Care & Dental Clinic, Dr. Jignesh Patel offers expert diagnosis and treatment for various forms of valvular heart disease.
Types of Valvular Heart Disease
- There are four main types of valvular heart disease:
- Stenosis: Stenosis is a narrowing of the valve opening. This can reduce the amount of blood that can flow through the valve.
- Regurgitation (or insufficiency) is a leaking of the valve. This allows blood to flow backward through the valve.
- Prolapse is a bulging of the valve leaflets. This can also cause blood to leak backward through the valve.
- Atresia is a condition in which a heart valve is completely blocked.
Symptoms of Valvular Heart Disease
- Shortness of Breath: Especially during activity or when lying down.
- Fatigue and Weakness: General feeling of tiredness or reduced ability to perform daily activities.
- Chest Pain or Discomfort: Often felt during exertion.
- Palpitations: Irregular heartbeats or a racing heart.
- Swelling: Swelling in the ankles, feet, or abdomen.
- Dizziness or Fainting: Especially during physical activity.
- Rapid Weight Gain: Due to fluid retention.
Valvular heart disease can be caused by a number of things, including:
- Congenital heart defects – These are heart defects that are present at birth.
- Rheumatic heart disease – This is an inflammation of the heart valves that is caused by a strep throat infection.
- Endocarditis – This is an infection of the heart valves.
- Heart attack
- High blood pressure
- Certain medications
- Aging
Diagnosis of Valvular Heart Disease
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- Physical Examination: Dr. Jignesh Patel will listen to your heart for abnormal sounds, such as a murmur, which can indicate valvular disease.
- Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart to visualize the structure and function of the heart valves.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): To measure the electrical activity of the heart and identify irregular heart rhythms.
- Chest X-ray: To check for an enlarged heart or other signs of heart disease.
- Cardiac MRI: Detailed images of the heart to assess the severity and cause of valve disease.
- Cardiac Catheterization: To get detailed information about the heart’s function and the condition of the coronary arteries.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are experiencing symptoms of valvular heart disease or have been diagnosed with a valve condition, contact Aarogya Heart Care & Dental Clinic to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jignesh Patel. Our dedicated team is here to support you on your journey to better heart health.