The human heart has four vital valves — the aortic, mitral, pulmonary, and tricuspid valves — that ensure blood flows in the correct direction. Valvular Heart Disease occurs when one or more of these valves aren't working properly, disrupting normal blood flow and putting extra strain on the heart.
Let’s explore what causes this condition, the types of valve disorders, symptoms to watch out for, and how it can be diagnosed and treated.
Causes of Valvular Heart Disease
Several factors can lead to valve damage or dysfunction:
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Congenital Defects: Some people are born with malformed or missing valves (a condition known as congenital heart disease).
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Infections: Conditions like rheumatic fever or infective endocarditis can cause inflammation and long-term damage to the heart valves.
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Degeneration: According to Narayana Health, valves may weaken or thicken over time due to aging.
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Other Medical Conditions: Connective tissue disorders (like Marfan syndrome) can affect valve structure.
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Age-related Changes: Natural wear and tear as we grow older can impair valve function.
Types of Valvular Heart Disease
Valvular disease generally falls into one of the following categories:
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Stenosis: The valve opening becomes too narrow, restricting blood flow.
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Regurgitation (or insufficiency): The valve doesn’t close properly, allowing blood to leak backward.
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Atresia: A valve is completely closed or missing, usually present from birth.
Symptoms of Valvular Heart Disease
Symptoms can vary based on the valve involved and the severity of the condition. In many cases, signs may not appear until the disease has progressed. Common symptoms include:
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Shortness of breath (especially during activity)
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Fatigue or general weakness
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Dizziness or lightheadedness
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Heart palpitations
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Swollen ankles or feet
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Chest pain or discomfort
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare provider.
Diagnosis: How Valvular Heart Disease is Detected
Your doctor may use a combination of the following tests to diagnose the condition:
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Physical Examination: Listening for heart murmurs using a stethoscope.
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Echocardiogram: A key test that uses ultrasound waves to create images of the heart and assess valve function.
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Electrocardiogram (ECG): Measures electrical activity and helps detect rhythm abnormalities.
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Chest X-ray: Checks the size and shape of the heart and lungs.
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Advanced Tests: In some cases, cardiac catheterization or angiography may be required for detailed evaluation.
Treatment Options for Valvular Heart Disease
Treatment depends on the type and severity of valve damage:
1. Lifestyle Changes
Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle can slow progression and ease symptoms:
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Eat a balanced, low-sodium diet
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Exercise regularly (as advised by your doctor)
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Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
2. Medications
Drugs may be prescribed to:
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Manage symptoms (like shortness of breath)
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Control related conditions (e.g., high blood pressure or arrhythmias)
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Prevent blood clots
3. Surgery
In moderate to severe cases, valve repair or replacement (with mechanical or biological valves) might be necessary to restore proper function and improve quality of life.
For Enquiries: cardiologysupport@
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