The heart has four valves that all play a different part in keeping blood flowing in the correct direction:

  • Mitral valve
  • Tricuspid valve
  • Pulmonary valve
  • Aortic valve

Heart valve disease is when one or more of these valves do not work correctly, meaning that the blood flow through from the heart to the body is disrupted.

 

Causes of heart valve disease

 

In some cases, the exact cause of the disease is unknown. However, the condition can be present at birth (congenital) and it can also occur in adults as a result of previous infections or other existing heart conditions.

 

Symptoms of heart valve disease

 

In some cases, the symptoms of heart valve disease do not show immediately and can take a few years to present. When signs and symptoms occur, they can include:

  • Chest pain
  • Whooshing sound during stethoscope exam (heart murmur)
  • Fatigue
  • Shortness of breath (during activity or at rest)
  • Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
  • Dizziness and/or fainting

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms outlined, it is advised that you consult with your GP who may then refer you to a cardiologist.

 

Risk factors of heart valve disease

 

A number of factors can increase your risk of heart valve disease, including:

  • History of infections or pre-existing conditions that affect the heart
  • Older age
  • High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and other heart disease risk factors
  • Congenital heart diseases

 

Treatment options for heart valve disease

 

The treatment options for the condition ultimately depend on the severity of the condition, symptoms experience and whether or not the condition is worsening.

Following assessment by a trained cardiologist, treatment may include monitoring your condition with regular follow-up visits and you may be advised to:

  • Make healthy lifestyle changes
  • Take medication(s) to treat symptoms

 

Here at One Ashford Hospital, we have a dedicated team of cardiologists on hand to rapidly assess, diagnose and treat heart valve disease along with a range of other conditions.