Heart Valve Disease

Heart Valve Disease – when the four valves that maintain one-way blood flow through the four chambers of the heart do not work properly. This disease occurs when either the valve is too narrow and inhibits blood flow, or does not shut tightly enough and “leaks.” Valve disease can lead to enlargement and weakening of the heart muscle, which may be permanent.

Causes: can be congenital (born with a deformity), acquired throughout life, or simply develop
from an unknown cause.

• Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP) is a common congenital condition that causes the leaflets of the mitral valve to flop back into the left atrium during the heart's contraction, causing the tissues of the valve to become abnormal and stretchy, which results in leakage.

Symptoms

• Shortness of breath
• Weakness or dizziness
• Chest discomfort
• Palpitations
• Swelling of the ankles, feet, or abdomen
• Rapid weight gain

Diagnosis:

• Physical examination for heart murmur
• Echocardiogram
• Exercise testing
• Rarely, cardiac catheterization or cardiac MRI are used

Treatment Options:

• Dietary change including low salt intake
• Medication
• Valve replacement surgery for severe cases

Importance: Patients need treatment and ongoing observation to avoid other cardiovascular complications