أمراض صمامات القلب (Heart Valve Diseases)

Heart Valve Diseases

On this page, you will find everything you need to know about heart valve diseases.

What are heart valve diseases?

Heart valve diseases occur when one or more of the heart valves do not function properly, affecting blood flow and putting stress on the heart.

The heart contains four valves: the mitral valve, the aortic valve, the pulmonary valve, and the tricuspid valve. Each valve has leaflets (flaps) that open and close to maintain blood flow in the correct direction through the heart and to the rest of the body.

• Types of heartRegurgitationvalve diseases:
• Valve RegurgitationStenosis(Backward Flow):
• This occurs when valve leaflets do not close tightly due to the widening of the valve opening or when the leaflets are not of normal size and shape,Atresiaallowing blood to leak and flow backward. Sometimes, it may happen due to the relaxation or prolapse of the mitral valve leaflets, which is the most common.

Valve Stenosis:

This occurs when the valve leaflets become thick and stiff, causing the narrowing of the heart valve, which prevents the flow of blood. As a result, not enough blood passes through the valve. Aortic valve stenosis (an issue with the aortic valve controlling blood flow into the main artery, the aorta) is the most common type of stenosis.

• Valve Atresia (Atresia):
• This occurs when a heart valve is abnormally formed, leaving no opening for blood to pass through, such as pulmonary valve atresia and tricuspid valve atresia.
• What are the symptoms of heart valve diseases?
• Sometimes, individuals might live without any symptoms, but the condition may worsen over time. Symptoms might vary by type and age group. Symptoms that may appear in newborns include:
• Weak pulse.

Low blood oxygen levels.

• Cyanosis: Bluish skin, particularly on the lips and fingers.
• Pale skin, rapid pulse or breathing, cold and sweaty hands.
• Lack of weight gain and growth as expected, or fatigue from eating or sweating when eating.
• Symptoms that may appear in adults include:
• Shortness of breath or rapid breathing, especially during physical activity.heart murmurs).
• Swelling in the feet, ankles, abdomen, neck veins, or around the eyes.
• Chest pain during physical activity.

Irregular heartbeat.

Abnormal sounds between heartbeats (heart murmurs).

Fatigue and severe exhaustion.

• • Dizziness when standing up.
  • These symptoms may resemble those of other diseases and conditions, so it’s important to consult a doctor for a correct diagnosis.

• What are the causes of heart valve diseases?

• • Causes and risk factors vary from person to person. One cause of valve diseases includes:
  • Congenital valve defects, which can arise alongside congenital heart defects, such as failure in the development of the aortic valve at birth.
  • There are acquired risk factors and medical conditions affecting the heart that increase the risk of disease, such as aging and rheumatic heart disease.
  • Diseases and health conditions affecting heart and artery health can enhance this risk, including:
  • Rheumatic fever (blood rheumatism)
  • Heart attack.
  • High blood pressure.

High cholesterol.

Diabetes.

• Lupus.Echocardiogram)).

Obesity and lack of physical activity.

What are the diagnostic methods?

• The doctor will take a medical history and perform a clinical examination, and may request additional procedures as needed, such as:
  • Echocardiogram.
  • What are the treatments for heart valve diseases?
  • Treatment involves several procedures or as required, which may include:
  • Medications:
• To manage symptoms and ensure proper blood flow.
  • To control heart rate.
  • To manage high blood pressure to reduce pressure on the heart.
• Blood thinners to prevent blood clots.
• Surgery and medical procedures such as:
  • Valve replacement with artificial valves made of biological or synthetic materials, depending on the health condition.
  • Valve repair.
  • Adopting a healthy lifestyle to avoid heart diseases and chronic conditions affecting the heart.
  • Ways to live with heart valve diseases include:
  • Follow up with your doctor and keep appointments.
  • Adhere to the treatment plan to avoid complications.
  • Follow prescribed medications from your doctor.
  • Eat healthy to maintain heart health and reduce the chance of chronic diseases.
  • Exercise according to your doctor’s instructions regarding the suitable duration and type for your health condition.

Maintain an ideal weight.

• Care for your mental health and manage stress.
• Complete all vaccinations.
• Train on emergency responses if there’s a patient at home (cardiopulmonary resuscitation).
• What are the prevention methods for heart valve diseases?
• Take necessary vitamins when planning for pregnancy and discuss prescribed medications during pregnancy.
• Avoid smoking.
• Engage in physical activity.

Maintain an ideal weight and avoid obesity.

Manage stress.

• Maintain dental and skin hygiene to prevent infections and inflammations.
• Adhere to medications prescribed by the treating physician.
• What are the complications of heart valve diseases?
• When valves do not function well, the heart exerts significant effort, pumping hard to supply the body with sufficient blood. Without treatment, this can put a heavy burden on the heart, leading to complications such as:

• Heart muscle enlargement.

Irregular heartbeats.

• Heart failure.
• Sudden cardiac arrest.
• When should you see a doctor?
• Seek medical attention/emergency services if you notice any of the following symptoms:

Chest pain.

• Severe fatigue and exhaustion.

Irregular heartbeat.

• Shortness of breath.

FAQs: