Valvular Problems

What are valvular problems?

Valvular problems refer to medical conditions that affect the heart valves, which are responsible for ensuring that blood flows in the correct direction through the heart chambers. The heart has four valves: the mitral valve, the aortic valve, the tricuspid valve, and the pulmonary valve. Valvular problems can occur when these valves become damaged, narrowed, or leaky, leading to disruptions in blood flow and potentially causing various cardiac issues.

What causes valvular problems?

Valvular problems can have several underlying causes, which may include:

• Congenital heart defects: Some people are born with abnormal heart valves or incomplete valve development.

• Age-related degeneration: As people get older, their heart valves can undergo wear and tear, leading to conditions like degenerative valve disease.

• Rheumatic fever: Untreated streptococcal infections, particularly in childhood, can lead to rheumatic fever, which may cause inflammation and scarring of the heart valves.

• Infective endocarditis: This is an infection of the inner lining of the heart chambers and heart valves, which can damage the valves.

• Cardiac conditions: Conditions like cardiomyopathy or heart attacks can cause changes in the heart structure and affect valve function.

• Connective tissue disorders: Certain conditions that affect connective tissues, such as Marfan syndrome, can cause valvular problems

​

What are the symptoms of valvular problems?

The symptoms of valvular problems can vary depending on the specific valve affected and the nature of the problem. Early mild to moderate valve problems can have no smyptoms.  

​

Some common symptoms may include:

• Heart murmurs: Unusual sounds heard during a heartbeat, which can be detected by a healthcare provider during a physical examination.

• Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity or when lying flat.

• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak, even with minimal exertion.

• Chest pain or discomfort: This may occur during physical activity or when the heart has to work harder to pump blood.

• Dizziness or fainting: Reduced blood flow can cause lightheadedness or fainting spells.

• Swelling: Fluid retention may lead to swelling in the feet, ankles, or abdomen.

​

What treatments are available for valvular problems?

The treatment of valvular problems depends on the severity of the condition, the specific valve affected, and the presence of symptoms. 

​

Treatment options may include:

• Medications: Certain medications can help manage symptoms and reduce the workload on the heart. These may include diuretics to reduce fluid buildup, beta-blockers to control heart rate, and medications to manage blood pressure.

• Valve repair or replacement: In some cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to repair or replace a damaged valve. Valve repair involves restoring the function of the existing valve, while valve replacement involves replacing the damaged valve with a mechanical or biological valve.

• Transcatheter valve procedures: In certain cases, minimally invasive techniques like transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) may be used to treat aortic valve problems.

• Anticoagulation therapy: For certain valvular conditions, such as atrial fibrillation or mechanical valve replacement, blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants) may be prescribed to reduce the risk of blood clots.

The appropriate treatment approach will be determined by Dr Pinakin after careful evaluation of the individual's condition. Regular follow-up visits and adherence to the treatment plan are essential for effectively managing valvular problems and improving overall heart health.