A disorder known as valvular heart disease occurs when one of the four heart valves is damaged or isn't functioning properly. The heart's valves help in controlling blood flow to the heart. The blood flow is disrupted when one or more valves do not open or seal correctly.
If you hear an odd sound or murmur along with the heartbeat then it may indicate valve dysfunction. The heart valve that is affected, which can result in either stenosis or regurgitation, is determined based on the murmur's location, rhythm, and kind of sound.
Stenosis and regurgitation are two disorders that can result from damaged valves. The valve narrows with stenosis, which reduces blood flow. Regurgitation is a disorder when the valve leaks the incorrect way, allowing blood to return to the heart rather than pump it out.
Causes of Valvular Heart Disease
Experts believe there are a number of causes of valvular heart disease. One of them is rheumatic fever, which starts when a bacterial strep throat infection is not properly treated. Heart valve scarring is caused by the infection.
Another problem that results from a serious infection of the heart's inner lining is endocarditis. The heart valves become damaged as the virus spreads to them. Several other factors that contribute to valve heart disease include heart attacks and high blood pressure.
Cardiologists claim that some people can be born with valvular heart disease, while others grow older and develop it.
Symptoms of Valvular Heart Disease
Due to its slow progression, valvular heart disease's symptoms might occasionally go unnoticed. However, the following symptoms are listed as the disease's most prevalent ones:
- Irregular heartbeat
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Fever
- Dizziness and fatigue
- Weight gain
- Valvular heart disease treatment
Treatment of Valvular Heart Disease
If the illness is not severe, medication can be used to control it. However, if the valves are seriously damaged, physicians may advise a variety of operations, such as open heart surgery, valve replacement, and more. To find out the state of the valves, doctors advise people with valvular heart disorders to have routine echocardiograms. In addition, the patients need to keep a constant eye on their cholesterol and blood pressure readings.
Patients' conditions can be improved by leading a stress-free lifestyle, following a balanced diet, and quitting smoking.
