Summary about Disease
Heart valve disease occurs when one or more of the heart's four valves don't work properly. These valves regulate blood flow through the heart's chambers and to the rest of the body. They can either not open fully (stenosis) or not close completely (regurgitation or insufficiency), disrupting blood flow and forcing the heart to work harder. Over time, this can lead to heart failure or other complications. The severity can range from mild, requiring only monitoring, to severe, requiring surgery.
Symptoms
Symptoms of heart valve disease can vary widely depending on the severity and the specific valve affected. Some people may have no symptoms for many years. Common symptoms include:
Shortness of breath, especially during activity or when lying down
Fatigue
Chest pain or pressure (angina)
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Fainting (syncope)
Swelling in the ankles, feet, or abdomen
Heart murmur (an abnormal sound heard through a stethoscope)
Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
Causes
Heart valve disease can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Congenital heart defects: Some people are born with valve abnormalities.
Rheumatic fever: This inflammatory condition, a complication of strep throat, can damage heart valves.
Infection: Endocarditis, an infection of the heart's inner lining, can damage valves.
Age-related changes: Valves can stiffen or thicken with age.
Coronary artery disease: This can weaken the heart muscle and affect valve function.
Other conditions: Conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and certain medications can also contribute.
Medicine Used
Medications are used to manage symptoms and prevent complications, but they don't cure heart valve disease. Common medications include:
Diuretics: To reduce fluid buildup and swelling.
Beta-blockers: To slow heart rate and lower blood pressure.
ACE inhibitors or ARBs: To lower blood pressure and reduce strain on the heart.
Anticoagulants (blood thinners): To prevent blood clots, especially in those with atrial fibrillation or mechanical heart valves.
Antiarrhythmics: To control irregular heartbeats.
Antibiotics: To prevent endocarditis in high-risk individuals before certain procedures.
Is Communicable
Heart valve disease is not communicable. It cannot be spread from person to person. The underlying causes, such as rheumatic fever caused by streptococcus bacteria, can be spread, but the resulting heart valve damage is not contagious.
Precautions
Precautions for individuals with heart valve disease focus on managing symptoms, preventing complications, and maintaining overall heart health. These include:
Regular medical checkups: With a cardiologist to monitor the condition.
Following prescribed medications: As directed by a doctor.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: Including a heart-healthy diet (low in sodium and saturated fat), regular exercise (as approved by a doctor), and avoiding smoking.
Preventing endocarditis: Discussing antibiotic prophylaxis with a doctor before dental procedures or surgeries, especially if you have an artificial heart valve or a history of endocarditis.
Managing underlying conditions: Like high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
Promptly reporting new or worsening symptoms: To your doctor.
How long does an outbreak last?
This disease is not an outbreak situation. It is a chronic condition that can last for years or even a lifetime. The symptoms and progression can vary significantly from person to person.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis of heart valve disease typically involves:
Physical examination: Listening to the heart with a stethoscope to detect murmurs.
Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart to visualize the valves and assess their function. This is the primary diagnostic tool.
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): To assess the heart's electrical activity and detect arrhythmias.
Chest X-ray: To evaluate the size and shape of the heart and lungs.
Cardiac catheterization: In some cases, to directly measure pressures in the heart and assess valve function.
MRI: May be used in some cases.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms is highly variable.
Early stages: Some people may have no symptoms for years. A heart murmur may be the only indication.
Gradual progression: Symptoms may develop slowly over time, such as increasing shortness of breath with exertion or fatigue.
Sudden onset: In some cases, symptoms may appear suddenly, particularly if the valve problem is due to an acute event like endocarditis or a ruptured chordae tendineae.
Exacerbations: Symptoms may worsen during periods of stress, illness, or pregnancy.
Important Considerations
Individualized treatment: Treatment should be tailored to the specific valve affected, the severity of the disease, and the individual's overall health.
Surgery: Valve repair or replacement may be necessary for severe cases. Different types of valves are available (mechanical and bioprosthetic), and the choice depends on factors such as age, lifestyle, and risk of blood clots.
Lifelong monitoring: Regular follow-up with a cardiologist is essential to monitor the condition and adjust treatment as needed.
Pregnancy: Women with heart valve disease should discuss pregnancy planning with their doctor, as pregnancy can put extra strain on the heart.
Patient education: Understanding the disease, its management, and potential complications is crucial for effective self-care.