Heart Valve Disease
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.
You can use your private medical insurance or pay for your Heart Valve Disease treatment. We offer competitive, fixed price packages as well as the ability to spread the cost of your treatment over a number of months. If you are using your health insurance, please contact your insurer first for approval and let them know you’d like to be treated at One Ashford Hospital
Why One Ashford Hospital
- Access to leading Consultants within 48 hours*
- Spread the cost with finance**
- Competitive fixed-price packages
- Modern purpose-built hospital
- Private, spacious, ensuite rooms
- Specialist Physiotherapy and nursing teams
- Little waiting time for surgery
- Calm, dignified experience
*Dependent on Consultant availability
**Terms and conditions apply
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