Summary about Disease
Valvular heart disease (VHD) occurs when one or more of the heart's four valves don't work properly. These valves (the aortic, mitral, tricuspid, and pulmonary valves) open and close to direct blood flow through the heart and to the rest of the body. VHD can involve stenosis (narrowing) that restricts blood flow, regurgitation (leaking) that allows blood to flow backward, or prolapse (improper closure). The severity can range from mild to life-threatening.
Symptoms
Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the valve damage and which valve is affected. Common symptoms include:
Shortness of breath, especially with exertion or when lying down
Fatigue
Chest pain or pressure
Dizziness or fainting
Palpitations (feeling a rapid or irregular heartbeat)
Swollen ankles or feet
Heart murmur (an abnormal sound heard through a stethoscope) Some people with VHD may not experience any symptoms, particularly in the early stages.
Causes
Valvular heart 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, caused by untreated strep throat or scarlet fever, can damage the heart valves.
Infection: Infections such as endocarditis (infection of the heart's inner lining) can damage the valves.
Age-related changes: Valves can thicken and stiffen with age (degenerative valve disease).
Coronary artery disease: Can affect the mitral valve.
Other conditions: Such as lupus, Marfan syndrome, radiation therapy, certain medications, and pulmonary hypertension.
Medicine Used
Medications are used to manage symptoms and prevent complications of valvular heart disease. They don't cure the valve problem itself. Common medications include:
Diuretics: To reduce fluid buildup (edema).
Antihypertensives: To lower blood pressure.
Antiarrhythmics: To control irregular heartbeats.
Anticoagulants: To prevent blood clots (especially in patients with atrial fibrillation or mechanical valves).
Antibiotics: To prevent or treat endocarditis. Note: This is not an exhaustive list. A doctor will choose the most appropriate medication.
Is Communicable
Valvular heart disease is not communicable. It cannot be spread from person to person like an infectious disease.
Precautions
Precautions for individuals with VHD may include:
Good dental hygiene: To prevent endocarditis, bacteria can enter the blood during dental procedures.
Antibiotic prophylaxis: May be recommended before certain medical or dental procedures to prevent endocarditis, depending on the specific valve condition and risk factors.
Regular medical checkups: To monitor the condition and adjust treatment as needed.
Healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly (as advised by a doctor) can help manage symptoms.
Avoid strenuous activity: Depending on the severity of the condition.
Avoiding Tobacco and alcohol: Especially important.
How long does an outbreak last?
Valvular heart disease is not an "outbreak" situation like an infectious disease. It is a chronic condition that can persist for many years, and, without treatment, may gradually worsen over time. The course of the disease depends on the underlying cause, the severity of the valve damage, and the effectiveness of treatment.
How is it diagnosed?
Valvular heart disease is typically diagnosed through a combination of:
Physical examination: Listening for heart murmurs with a stethoscope.
Echocardiogram: Uses sound waves to create images of the heart and valves, showing their structure and function. This is a primary diagnostic tool.
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Records the electrical activity of the heart and can detect arrhythmias or signs of heart enlargement.
Chest X-ray: Can show heart enlargement or fluid buildup in the lungs.
Cardiac catheterization: A more invasive procedure where a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel and guided to the heart to measure pressures and assess valve function. Typically used when other tests are inconclusive or to plan for surgery.
MRI: Can also be used to diagnose VHD, though less common.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms varies greatly depending on the severity of the valve problem and the individual.
Early Stages: May be asymptomatic. A heart murmur might be the first sign.
Gradual Progression: Symptoms like fatigue and shortness of breath may develop slowly over years.
Rapid Deterioration: In some cases (e.g., sudden valve rupture), symptoms can appear quickly and be severe.
Acute Events: Such as a stroke or heart failure, can occur if the condition is untreated.
Important Considerations
Early detection is key: Regular checkups with a doctor can help identify VHD in its early stages, when treatment may be more effective.
Treatment options vary: Depending on the severity and the affected valve, treatment may include medication, valve repair, or valve replacement.
Surgery is often necessary: In severe cases, valve repair or replacement is often the most effective treatment.
Long-term management is essential: Even after treatment, ongoing monitoring and care are crucial to prevent complications.
Individualized care: Treatment plans should be tailored to the individual patient's needs and circumstances.
Pregnancy Considerations: Women with VHD who are planning to become pregnant should discuss their condition with their doctor, as pregnancy can put extra strain on the heart.