Valvular Heart Disease

Valvular heart disease results from damage to one of the four heart valves (tricuspid, mitral, pulmonary, or aortic).

The tricuspid and mitral valves regulate blood flow between the heart and the atria
The aortic valve regulates blood flow between the heart and the aorta
The pulmonary valve regulates blood flow from the heart to the lungs

Causes

Although valvular heart disease may be a congenital disorder, it is frequently acquired later in life. Causes may include:

Rheumatic fever: If left untreated, the bacterial infection might damage the valves
Bacterial endocarditis:Caused by bacteria that infiltrate the bloodstream and settle in the heart's lining, causing swelling and significant damage
Heart attack:Damages and weakens the muscles that control the heart valves
Systemic lupus
Tumour

Signs and symptoms

There may be no symptoms in certain cases of valvular heart disease. Valvular heart disease, however, can have serious implications in severe cases. The most typical signs and symptoms include:

Abnormal heartbeats/Heart palpations
Fatigue
Fever
Lightheadedness or fainting
Swelling in the feet, ankles and abdomen
Fast weight gain

Risk factors

Older age
Hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes and other risk factors for heart disease
Congenital heart disease (acquired from birth)
Previous heart attack, heart disease or heart infections

Diagnosis

Physical examination
Heart magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Echocardiogram
Chest X-ray
Angiogram

Treatment options

The course of treatment is determined by the severity of the condition. You may not require treatment if the condition is minor.

Options for treatment may include:

Medicines for the relief of swelling, abnormal heart rhythm, hypertension and other symptoms e.g., diuretics, antiarrhythmics and blood thinners
Heart valve surgery such as the replacement and repair of the heart valves

Prevention

Maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce your risk. Here are some steps you can take: