Heart Valve Disorders: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment Options

Your heart has four valves, the aortic, mitral, tricuspid, and pulmonary valves that work like gates, ensuring blood flows in the right direction. When one or more valves don’t function properly, it can affect the efficiency of your heart and lead to heart valve disorders. Understanding the symptoms, how these conditions are diagnosed, and available treatments are essential for protecting long-term heart health. 

What Are Heart Valve Disorders? 

Heart valve disorders occur when a valve doesn’t open or close properly. This can cause blood to leak backward or restrict blood flow. The most common types include: 

• Valve Stenosis – when a valve becomes narrowed, making it harder for blood to flow. 
• Valve Regurgitation (Insufficiency) – when a valve doesn’t close completely, causing blood to leak backward. 
• Valve Prolapse – when valve flaps bulge or slip out of place, often affecting the mitral valve. 

Symptoms of Heart Valve Disorders 

In the early stages, heart valve disorders may not cause noticeable symptoms. Over time, you may experience: 

• Shortness of breath, especially during activity or when lying down 
• Fatigue and weakness 
• Irregular heartbeat or palpitations 
• Swelling in the ankles, feet, or abdomen 
• Dizziness or fainting spells 
• Chest pain or pressure 

These symptoms can mimic other conditions, so medical evaluation is essential. 

Diagnosis of Heart Valve Disorders 

Cardiologists use several tools to identify and assess valve problems, including: 

• Echocardiogram (Echo) – ultrasound imaging to view valve structure and function. 
• Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) – measures heart rhythm and electrical activity. 
• Chest X-ray – shows heart size and any fluid in the lungs. 
• Cardiac MRI & CT scans – advanced imaging for detailed evaluation. 
• Cardiac Catheterization – used in complex cases to measure pressures inside the heart. 

Treatment Options for Heart Valve Disorders 

1. Medications
   While medicines can’t fix valve damage, they can manage symptoms and reduce complications. These may include: 

• Diuretics (to reduce fluid buildup) 
• Beta-blockers or ACE inhibitors (to manage blood pressure and heart rhythm) 
• Blood thinners (to prevent clot formation) 

2. Minimally Invasive Procedures

• Balloon Valvuloplasty – widens narrowed valves using a balloon catheter. 
• Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) – a less invasive option to replace a diseased aortic valve. 

3. Surgery

• Valve Repair – surgeons fix the patient’s own valve when possible. 
• Valve Replacement – using either mechanical valves (durable, require blood thinners) or biological valves (from animal tissue, may need replacement over time). 

Living with a Heart Valve Disorder 

Patients with valve disorders should: 

• Maintain regular cardiology checkups 
• Follow a heart-healthy diet and exercise plan 
• Take prescribed medications consistently 
• Avoid smoking and manage blood pressure, diabetes, or cholesterol 

Final Thoughts 

Heart valve disorders are serious, but with today’s advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options, patients can live long and healthy lives. If you notice symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, or irregular heartbeat, don’t delay; schedule an appointment with your cardiologist. Early diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference in protecting your heart.