What is Valvular Heart Disease?
Valvular heart disease occurs when one or more of your heart valves don't work properly. Your heart has four valves that keep blood flowing in the correct direction. Problems can include valves that don't open wide enough (stenosis) or valves that don't close completely (regurgitation or insufficiency).
Common Types
- Aortic Stenosis: Narrowing of the aortic valve
- Mitral Regurgitation: Leaky mitral valve
- Mitral Valve Prolapse: Improper closing of mitral valve
- Aortic Regurgitation: Leaky aortic valve
Symptoms
Symptoms may develop gradually and include:
- Shortness of breath, especially with exertion
- Fatigue and weakness
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Dizziness or fainting
- Irregular heartbeat
- Swollen ankles or feet
Diagnosis and Treatment
We use echocardiography as the primary tool to diagnose valve problems. Treatment depends on the type and severity of valve disease and may include regular monitoring, medications to manage symptoms, or procedures such as valve repair or replacement. We offer both surgical and minimally invasive transcatheter options for valve treatment.
