Spotting signs of heart valve disease: Causes, types and path to treatment

Heart valve disease can be caused due to multiple factors like ageing, congenital defects and infections hence, it is crucial to understand the causes and symptoms of heart valve diseases for early detection and prompt medical intervention. The heart valve consists of four valves that is the aortic valve, mitral valve, pulmonary valve and tricuspid valve where these four heart valves make sure that the oxygen-rich blood flows in the one direction and also prevent the blood from flowing backward.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Bipeenchandra Bhamre, Consultant Cardiac Surgeon at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre in Mumbai, shared, “Heart valve disease occurs when the structure of heart valve becomes severely damaged leading to various health problems. This can impact the valves making them too loose or too narrow, significantly restricting the heart from pumping the blood effectively. Stenosis and regurgitation are two main types of heart valve diseases.”
Dr Bipeenchandra Bhamre asserted, “Timely detection and management are important for improving the quality of life of the patient. Newer medicines can help to alleviate the symptoms and bring normalcy in life. Technological advancement in the artificial heart valve prosthesis has made the surgeries very low risks. Your doctor will determine the appropriate line of treatment for you. Do not overlook the symptoms and further investigation such as 2dechocardiography will detect or rule out heart valve disease.”
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.