The heart has 4 valves. These valves separate the chambers of the heart and separate the heart from the systemic and pulmonary circulation. Control of blood flowing from the atrium to the ventricles is provided by the mitral and tricuspid valves. Control of blood exiting the heart to the lungs or the body is provided by the pumonary valves and the aortic valves, respectively. Healthy valves are essential for the function of the heart as a pump. The heart valves become damaged or destroyed from many diseases. These diseases can affect the heart primarily or secondarily.
Causes of Heart Valve Disease
Narrowing, or stenosis, of the heart valves may occur. This limits the amount of blood that can be pumped and increases the resistance the heart muscle has to overcome. The valves may be widened or scarred. This allows blood to flow back into the chamber where it is being pumped from and decreases the efficacy of the heart. Atherosclerosis, Rheumatic fever, uncontrolled high blood pressure, congenital heart defects, endocarditis, intravenous drug abuse, and syphilis are some of the diseases that can lead to heart valve abnormalities.
Signs and Symptoms of Heart Valve Disease
The heart's valves can be affected in an acute process or may be damaged over a period of time. The symptoms vary both from the rate of injury, as well as from the severity of the heart valve dysfunction. Some heart valve problems will be minor and not produce any symptoms at all. There may be mild or significant chest pain. Shortness of breath may develop, or may develop during exercise. Dizziness, lightheadedness and fainting may occur. There may be problems breathing when attempting to lie down. Slow, fast or irregular heart beats may occur. If there is an acute infectious process of the heart valves, fever and chills develop. In these people, there may be a history of indwelling catheters or the use of intravenous drugs. There may be a history of Rheumatic fever.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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