Essential Insights into Signs and Treatments
Heart valve disorder is a condition in which one or more of the heart’s valves do not open or close properly. These valves keep blood moving in the right direction through the heart. When they do not work well, the heart can become strained and blood may flow backward or leak. In this article, we will discuss some common signs and symptoms of heart valve disorder and look at several treatments that can help manage the condition.
9 Signs and Symptoms of Heart Valve Disorder
1. Palpitations
Palpitations are sensations in your chest that your heart is beating too fast or skipping beats. When your heart valves are not working correctly, the heart may try to pump harder, which can lead to these irregular feelings. People might notice that their heart is racing during exercise or even at rest.
2. Fatigue
Fatigue is a feeling of extreme tiredness that does not improve with rest. When the heart valves leak or do not open properly, your heart has to work harder to move blood through the body. This extra work can leave you feeling tired and worn out.
3. Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath means you feel like you cannot get enough air when you breathe. This may happen during exercise, at rest or while sleeping. If your heart is not pumping blood efficiently because of a valve problem, the lungs can become congested. This makes it hard for oxygen to move into the body and you may feel like you are gasping for air.
4. Edema
Edema is swelling that typically occurs in the legs, ankles and feet. When the heart valves do not work as they should, it can lead to a buildup of fluid in the body. This fluid buildup makes your legs feel puffy and heavy.
5. Dizziness
Dizziness is a sensation of lightheadedness or feeling faint. Poor blood flow because of a heart valve disorder may result in less oxygen reaching the brain. This reduction in oxygen can make you feel dizzy or unsteady on your feet.
6. Weakness
Weakness is the feeling of low energy or having reduced strength in the body. When the heart has difficulty pumping blood due to a valve problem, muscles and tissues may not get the oxygen and nutrients they need.
7. Weight Gain
Weight gain can occur as a result of fluid retention in the body. With heart valve disorder, poor circulation can cause the body to hold on to extra water. This extra fluid can add extra weight.
8. Irregular Heart Rhythm
Irregular heart rhythm, also known as arrhythmia, means that your heart beats in an abnormal pattern. Heart valve disorders can disturb the normal flow of blood, which might lead to an erratic heartbeat.
9. Chest Pain
Chest pain is a serious symptom that should be taken very seriously. It may feel sharp or like pressure in the chest. In heart valve disorder, chest pain can occur because the heart is under strain or because blood flow is restricted.
Common Treatments for Heart Valve Disorder
Treating a heart valve disorder depends on which valve is affected and the severity of the disease. Here are some common treatments for heart valve disorder.
Medications
Medications are often the first treatment option for managing heart valve problems. These drugs can help to ease symptoms and prevent further complications. For example, diuretics can reduce the amount of fluid in the body and help with swelling, while beta-blockers and other medications may help to control heart rate and reduce strain on the heart.
Annuloplasty
Annuloplasty is a surgical procedure used to repair a heart valve without removing it. In this treatment, a surgeon will tighten or support the ring (annulus) that holds the valve in place. By tightening this ring, the valve can close more properly and reduce the leaking or backflow of blood.
Valvuloplasty
Valvuloplasty is another surgery that helps repair a valve that is not opening properly. In this procedure, a surgeon uses a balloon to widen a narrowed valve. This widening allows blood to flow through more easily and reduces the burden on the heart.
Valve Replacement
Sometimes a heart valve is so damaged that it needs to be replaced. Valve replacement surgery involves removing the faulty valve and putting in a new one. The new valve can be made from animal tissue or synthetic materials. This treatment is generally reserved for more severe cases of heart valve disorder where repair is not possible or effective.
Cardiac Rehabilitation
Cardiac rehabilitation is a program that helps people recover after heart surgery or manage heart conditions. It often includes a mix of exercise, education and counseling. Through this program, patients learn ways to improve their heart health, such as following a balanced diet, taking medications properly and learning stress-reduction techniques. Cardiac rehabilitation can help build strength, improve energy levels and reduce the risk of future heart problems.
Final Notes
Heart valve disorder is a serious condition that affects the proper function of the heart. Understanding both the symptoms and the treatment options is a key step in managing the condition and maintaining a healthy heart.
Keep reading to learn about heart healthy foods to add to your diet.