Valvular Heart Disease

Valvular heart disease (VHD) refers to any disease process involving one or more of the heart’s valves, which regulate blood flow through the heart’s chambers. The heart has four valves: the mitral, aortic, tricuspid, and pulmonary valves. Valvular heart disease can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired due to various conditions such as infections, degenerative changes, or other heart diseases.

Symptoms

Shortness of Breath: Especially during exertion or when lying flat.

Fatigue: General tiredness due to decreased cardiac output.

Palpitations: Sensation of irregular or rapid heartbeats.

Chest Pain: Especially with aortic stenosis.

Swelling: In the ankles, feet, or abdomen.

Dizziness or Fainting: Often associated with aortic stenosis.

Diagnosis

Physical Examination: Detection of heart murmurs and other abnormal heart sounds using a stethoscope.

Echocardiography: Ultrasound imaging to assess valve structure and function.

Transthoracic Echocardiography (TTE): Non-invasive imaging from the chest wall.

Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE): Detailed imaging through the esophagus.

Electrocardiogram (ECG): Records the electrical activity of the heart.

Chest X-ray: Provides an image of the heart and lungs.

Cardiac MRI: Detailed imaging of heart structures.

Cardiac Catheterization: Invasive test to measure pressures in the heart chambers and assess the severity of valve disease.

Treatment

Medications

Diuretics: Reduce fluid buildup.

Beta-Blockers: Manage heart rate and blood pressure.

ACE Inhibitors: Reduce blood pressure and workload on the heart.

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