What is heart valve disease?
Heart valve disease is when the valves in the heart don't function properly. Valves ensure that blood flows through the heart in the right direction. When they don't work properly it can cause complications.
There are different types of heart valve disease:
Stenosis- Less blood flow as the valves are narrower.
Regurgitation- When blood leaks backwards as the valves are not closed tightly.
Prolapse- When valves become floppy, causing regurgitation.
Atresia- When the valve isn't formed, and chambers of the heart are blocked off by solid tissue.
Symptoms:
-Shortness of breath
-Fatigue
-Chest pain
-Dizziness
-Swelling in the ankles or feet
-Fainting
-Irregular heartbeat
Some people are born with heart valve disease, however adults can get it too.
Risk factors:
-Infections
-Heart attacks or other heart diseases
-High blood pressure
-High cholesterol
-Diabetes
Treatment:
Sometimes surgery is necessary to replace or repair the valves.
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