Valvular heart diseases refer to a group of disorders that affect the valves of the heart, impairing their normal function. The heart is an intricate organ composed of four valves — the mitral valve, tricuspid valve, aortic valve, and pulmonary valve — that help regulate blood flow through the chambers of the heart and throughout the body.
These conditions can manifest in various ways, such as valve stenosis, where the valve becomes narrowed, hindering the proper flow of blood. Alternatively, valve regurgitation or insufficiency occurs when the valve does not close tightly, enabling blood to leak backward. These disruptions in valve structure and function impede the heart's ability to circulate blood efficiently, leading to symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and eventually, heart failure.
Valvular heart diseases can result from congenital abnormalities, degenerative changes due to aging, infection (such as rheumatic fever or endocarditis), or conditions like hypertension or atherosclerosis. Diagnosis involves medical history evaluation, physical examination, and the use of diagnostic tests, including echocardiography and cardiac catheterization.
Treatment for valvular heart diseases may include lifestyle modifications, medications to control symptoms or manage underlying conditions, or surgical interventions. In some cases, valve repair or replacement may be necessary to restore normal valve function and improve overall heart health.
Early detection and management of valvular heart diseases are crucial to prevent further complications and improve long-term prognosis for affected individuals. Regular medical check-ups and adherence to prescribed treatment plans are essential for individuals with valvular heart diseases.
