Summary about Disease
Valvular dysfunction refers to any condition where one or more of the heart valves don't work properly. These valves – the aortic, mitral, tricuspid, and pulmonary valves – control the flow of blood in and out of the heart chambers. Valve dysfunction can manifest as stenosis (narrowing of the valve, restricting blood flow) or regurgitation/insufficiency (leaking of blood backward through the valve). Severity ranges from mild, often unnoticed, to severe, causing significant heart problems and potential complications.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the severity and which valve(s) are affected. Common symptoms include:
Shortness of breath, especially during exertion or when lying down
Fatigue
Chest pain or pressure (angina)
Dizziness or fainting
Heart murmur (an abnormal sound heard through a stethoscope)
Swelling in the ankles, feet, or abdomen
Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
Rapid weight gain
Causes
Causes of valvular dysfunction are varied and include:
Congenital heart defects: Present at birth.
Rheumatic fever: A complication of strep throat that can damage heart valves.
Endocarditis: An infection of the heart valves.
Calcification: Buildup of calcium deposits on the valve, causing stiffness (often related to aging).
Mitral valve prolapse: The mitral valve leaflets bulge back into the left atrium during ventricular contraction.
Coronary artery disease: Can lead to damage of the heart muscles, affecting valve function.
Cardiomyopathy: Disease of the heart muscle.
Aortic aneurysm: Enlargement of the aorta that can affect the aortic valve.
Radiation therapy: In rare cases, radiation can damage heart valves.
Certain medications: Some medications, such as certain diet drugs, have been linked to valve problems.
Medicine Used
Medications are used to manage symptoms and prevent complications, not necessarily to cure the valve problem itself. Common medications include:
Diuretics: To reduce fluid buildup (swelling, shortness of breath).
Anticoagulants: To prevent blood clots, especially in cases of atrial fibrillation or mechanical heart valves.
Beta-blockers and Calcium channel blockers: To slow the heart rate and lower blood pressure.
ACE inhibitors and ARBs: To lower blood pressure and reduce the workload on the heart.
Antiarrhythmics: To control irregular heartbeats.
Antibiotics: To prevent or treat endocarditis in certain high-risk individuals undergoing procedures. Note: Specific medication choices depend on the individual’s condition and other health problems.
Is Communicable
No, valvular dysfunction is not communicable. It is not caused by an infectious agent and cannot be transmitted from person to person.
Precautions
Precautions depend on the severity and cause of the valve problem. General precautions include:
Regular medical follow-up: To monitor the condition and adjust treatment as needed.
Maintaining good oral hygiene: To reduce the risk of endocarditis.
Informing doctors and dentists about the valve problem: Especially before any invasive procedures.
Taking prescribed medications as directed.
Following a heart-healthy lifestyle: Including a balanced diet, regular exercise (as recommended by a doctor), and avoiding smoking.
Prophylactic antibiotics: May be needed before certain dental or surgical procedures to prevent endocarditis.
How long does an outbreak last?
Valvular dysfunction is not an "outbreak" like an infectious disease. It is a chronic condition that can persist for a lifetime. The progression of the condition can vary. Some individuals may have stable, mild valve problems for many years, while others may experience a gradual worsening of symptoms that require intervention (surgery or other procedures).
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves:
Physical Examination: Listening for heart murmurs with a stethoscope.
Echocardiogram: Ultrasound of the heart to visualize the valves and blood flow. This is the primary diagnostic test.
Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG): To assess heart rhythm and detect any signs of heart enlargement or strain.
Chest X-ray: To evaluate the size and shape of the heart and lungs.
Cardiac Catheterization: In some cases, this may be necessary to directly measure pressures in the heart chambers and assess valve function.
Cardiac MRI: Provides detailed images of the heart and valves.
Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE): A more detailed ultrasound of the heart performed by inserting a probe into the esophagus.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms varies greatly.
Congenital: Symptoms may be present from birth or develop in childhood.
Rheumatic Fever: Symptoms may appear years after the initial strep infection.
Gradual Development: In cases of calcification or age-related changes, symptoms often develop slowly over many years.
Sudden Onset: Endocarditis can cause a more rapid onset of symptoms. The rate of symptom progression is unpredictable.
Important Considerations
Early detection is crucial: To manage the condition and prevent complications.
Valve repair or replacement surgery: May be necessary if the valve dysfunction is severe.
Regular monitoring is essential: Even after valve surgery.
Lifestyle modifications: Play a vital role in managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
Individualized treatment: Is necessary based on the specific type and severity of the valve problem, as well as the patient's overall health.
Endocarditis Prevention: Good dental hygiene and antibiotic prophylaxis (when recommended by your doctor) are crucial to prevent endocarditis.