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One of the most prevalent causes of death and morbidity among acquired cardiovascular diseases in India is valvular heart disease. On average, around 40% of hospitalised patients with heart diseases are affected by rheumatic valvular heart disease. Today, we are focusing on valvular heart disease and how simple lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk.
Synopsis
About Valvular Heart Disease
Valvular heart disease is a condition that affects the valves of the heart. The four valves in the heart—the tricuspid, aortic, pulmonary, and mitral—are essential for controlling blood flow through the chambers of the heart and into the bloodstream. With every heartbeat, these valves open and close, ensuring that blood flows through the heart and out of the body or lungs in the proper direction. The valves keep blood from flowing backwards when they are operating correctly, preserving effective circulation.
However, in valvular heart disease, the valves may become damaged, malformed, or weakened, leading to disruptions in blood flow. This can result in various complications, including heart murmurs, heart failure, blood clots, and even sudden cardiac arrest.
Causes of Valvular Heart Disease
The causes of valvular heart disease can vary and may include:
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Rheumatic fever: A bacterial infection that can cause inflammation and scarring of the heart valves.
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Congenital heart defects: Some people are born with valve abnormalities that worsen over time.
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Ageing: The natural wear and tear of heart valves over time can lead to stenosis or regurgitation.
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Infections: Endocarditis, a bacterial infection of the heart lining, can damage heart valves.
Other cardiovascular conditions: Conditions like high blood pressure and atherosclerosis can contribute to valvular heart disease.
Treatment of Valvular Heart Disease
Treatment options for valvular heart disease depend on the type and severity of the condition, as well as the individual's overall health and preferences. Here are some common treatment approaches:
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Medications: Although medications cannot cure heart valve disease, they can frequently lessen its symptoms. Drugs that lower blood pressure include diuretics or vasodilators, which lessen the workload on the heart, as well as beta-blockers, digoxin, and calcium channel blockers to regulate heart rate.
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Minimally Invasive Procedures: In some cases, minimally invasive procedures may be recommended to repair or replace a damaged heart valve. These procedures include:
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Balloon Valvuloplasty: A catheter with a balloon at its tip is inserted into the narrowed valve and inflated to widen the opening, improving blood flow.
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Transcatheter Valve Repair or Replacement: In this procedure, a new valve is implanted using a catheter-based approach, avoiding the need for open-heart surgery.
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Valve Repair: Surgical repair of the damaged valve may be performed to correct abnormalities such as valve prolapse or regurgitation.
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Surgical Valve Replacement: In cases where the valve damage is severe or irreparable, surgical valve replacement may be necessary. This involves removing the damaged valve and replacing it with a mechanical or biological valve.
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Heart Valve Repair: In some instances, especially with conditions like mitral valve prolapse, surgical repair of the valve may be an option. This procedure aims to restore the valve's normal function and structure without the need for replacement.
Symptoms of Valvular Heart Disease
The valvular heart disease symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common heart valve disease symptoms may include:
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Breathing difficulty, particularly when moving or lying still
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Weakness and exhaustion
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Discomfort or pain in the chest
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Lightheadedness or fainting
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Abnormal heart rhythm or palpitations
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Swollen feet or ankles
It is crucial to speak with your healthcare provider as soon as possible if you are exhibiting any of these valvular heart disease symptoms so that they can properly diagnose and treat you.
Consult a cardiologist in Bhubaneswar if you are experiencing the above heart valve disease symptoms.
Valvular Heart Disease Treatment
Valvular heart disease treatment depends on the type and severity of the condition, as well as the individual's overall health and preferences. Here are some common treatment approaches:
Medical Management of Valvular Heart Disease
Although medications cannot cure valvular heart disease, they can frequently lessen its symptoms. Medications may include:
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Diuretics and Vasodilators: Reduce the workload on the heart by lowering blood pressure.
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Beta-blockers and Calcium Channel Blockers: Help regulate heart rate and improve blood flow.
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Anticoagulants: Prevent blood clots in patients with valve abnormalities.
Minimally Invasive Procedures
In some cases, minimally invasive procedures may be recommended for the management of valvular heart disease. These include:
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Balloon Valvuloplasty: A catheter with a balloon at its tip is inserted into the narrowed valve and inflated to widen the opening, improving blood flow.
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Transcatheter Valve Repair or Replacement: A new valve is implanted using a catheter-based approach, avoiding the need for open-heart surgery.
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Valve Repair: Surgical repair of the damaged valve may be performed to correct abnormalities such as valve prolapse or regurgitation.
Surgical Valve Replacement
In severe cases where the valve is irreparable, surgical valve replacement is necessary. This involves removing the damaged valve and replacing it with either a mechanical valve or a biological valve.
Guidelines for the Management of Patients with Valvular Heart Disease
The guidelines for the management of patients with valvular heart disease emphasize early detection, lifestyle modifications, and timely medical intervention. Patients are advised to:
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Follow regular cardiac check-ups to monitor valve function.
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Maintain a heart-healthy diet to prevent further complications.
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Engage in moderate physical activity under medical supervision.
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Adhere to prescribed medications to manage symptoms effectively.
5 Easy Lifestyle Changes for a Healthy Heart
Simple lifestyle modifications can lower the risk of heart disease and support overall heart health in addition to medical treatments. Here are five simple habits for a healthy heart:
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Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet: Choose a diet high in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and healthy fats. Reduce your consumption of sodium, cholesterol, and saturated fats.
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Exercise Regularly: Spend at least 30 minutes daily engaging in activities like brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming to strengthen the heart and improve circulation.
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Quit Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease. Quitting smoking can significantly improve heart health.
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Manage Stress Effectively: Chronic stress negatively impacts heart health. Practice stress-relieving activities like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
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Get Routine Check-ups: Regular heart screenings and check-ups help detect potential heart conditions early and improve outcomes.
Consult a heart hospital in Bhubaneswar if you need to learn more about habits for a healthy heart.
Conclusion
Valvular heart disease presents a significant health challenge, particularly in India, where it ranks among the leading causes of mortality and morbidity in cardiovascular diseases. However, amidst these statistics lies a glimmer of hope. By embracing simple lifestyle changes and adopting proactive measures, individuals can take charge of their heart health and significantly reduce their risk of developing valvular heart disease.
In this journey towards heart health, Manipal Hospitals in Bhubaneswar stands as a trusted partner, offering world-class cardiac care and expertise from our expert Cardiologist to guide you towards a healthier tomorrow.
FAQ's
The causes of valvular heart disease include:
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A heart attack and coronary artery disease.
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Infection of the heart valve.
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Structural alterations brought on by ageing in the heart valves.
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High blood pressure.
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High cholesterol.
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Birth abnormality
It is recommended to have regular check-ups with your healthcare provider for heart health assessments, especially if you have risk factors for heart disease or experience any symptoms suggestive of heart problems.
Reducing the risk of developing valvular heart disease can be achieved by adopting a healthy lifestyle and managing other risk factors, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol, even though some risk factors, like congenital defects, cannot be prevented.
While some forms of valvular heart disease may have a genetic component, not all cases are hereditary. It is essential to discuss any family history of heart disease with your healthcare provider for personalised risk assessment and management.
If you experience symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Your healthcare provider can perform evaluations and recommend appropriate tests or treatments based on your individual needs.
To schedule an appointment at Manipal Hospitals in Bhubaneshwar, Odisha, regarding your cardiac concern, please feel free to contact us by phone or visit our website.
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