Protect your Heart - Understanding the Impact of Heart Valve Disease

The heart consists of four essential valves—the mitral, aortic, tricuspid, and pulmonary valves—that ensure blood flows in the correct direction through its chambers and out to the body. Each valve opens and closes with every heartbeat, preventing blood from leaking backward. This coordinated function allows oxygen-rich blood to be pumped efficiently from the heart to organs while circulating oxygen-poor blood to the lungs for replenishment. When one or more valves become damaged or narrowed, it disrupts this flow, placing strain on the heart and potentially leading to serious complications.

 

Symptoms of Heart Valve Disease 

Heart valve disease can present with various symptoms, which often depend on the severity of the dysfunction. Common signs include: 

• Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity
• Fatigue or weakness, even with minimal exertion
• Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat
• Chest discomfort during exertion
• Swelling in the feet, ankles, or abdomen 

As these symptoms often develop gradually, many individuals may not notice them early on, underscoring the importance of regular check-ups to detect issues promptly. 

 

Prevention: Guarding Your Heart Health 

Prevention starts with lifestyle management and early detection of risk factors. Key preventive measures include: 

• Routine Health Screenings: Early detection of valve issues through comprehensive check-ups
• Controlling Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Reducing strain on the heart and valves
• Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking
• Preventing Infections: Addressing infections that could lead to rheumatic fever, a cause of valve disease 

Treatment Options: Modern Cardiac Intervention 

When valve disease progresses, treatment options depend on the complexity of the condition. Advances in cardiac intervention allow for minimally invasive procedures and effective management of even severe cases. 
 

• Medications: Used to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
• Minimally Invasive Procedures: Catheter-based techniques, such as Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), offer a less invasive solution for many patients.
• Surgical Valve Repair or Replacement: Open-heart surgery may be necessary in more complex cases. 

 
At Bumrungrad International Hospital’s Heart Valve Center, our specialists provide comprehensive care, utilizing state-of-the-art technology for both diagnosis and treatment. Whether it is managing early symptoms or addressing advanced valve disorders, we offer personalized care to improve patient outcomes. Our expertise in complex cardiac intervention ensures the best possible treatment, giving patients the confidence they need to live healthier lives. 
If you or a loved one experience symptoms of valve disease, schedule a consultation with the Bumrungrad Heart Institute today. Early intervention can make all the difference.