Valvular heart disease

Valvular heart disease refers to any condition affecting the heart valves, which control the flow of blood within the heart. This disease can be caused by valve stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leakage).

Types of Valvular Heart Disease

Stenosis

• Aortic Stenosis: Narrowing of the aortic valve, affecting blood flow from the heart to the aorta.
• Mitral Stenosis: Narrowing of the mitral valve, affecting blood flow between the left atrium and left ventricle.

Regurgitation

• Aortic Regurgitation: Leakage of the aortic valve, causing blood to flow backward into the heart.
• Mitral Regurgitation: Leakage of the mitral valve, causing blood to flow backward into the left atrium.

Diagram of the human heart with valves labeled.

Causes

Causes of valvular heart disease include congenital heart defects, age-related changes, infections (like rheumatic fever), and conditions like endocarditis.

Symptoms

Common symptoms include breathlessness, chest pain, fatigue, irregular heartbeat, and swelling of the feet or ankles.

Diagnosis

Diagnostic methods include physical examination, Echocardiography, Electrocardiogram (ECG), and cardiac MRI.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the severity and type of valvular disease. Options include medication, lifestyle changes, and surgical interventions such as valve repair or replacement.

Prevention and Management

Preventive measures include treating strep throat promptly to avoid rheumatic fever, managing risk factors like high blood pressure, and regular medical checkups.

External Links

• [Link to a medical resource on valvular heart disease]
• [Link to a heart association's page on valve disease treatment options]

References

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