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 Cardio Plus Heart Care, 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
-
- 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 Cardio Plus Heart Care to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jignesh Patel. Our dedicated team is here to support you on your journey to better heart health.