Signs and Symptoms of Heart Valve Disease

Heart valve disease is an umbrella term used to describe a set of conditions that all affect heart valve function. The function of valves in the heart is to maintain a one-direction flow of blood. Essentially, they keep blood from leaking backwards while the heart pumps. Heart valve disease can be either congenital (those developing before birth) or acquired (those effecting changes over time). There is no single sign or symptom that indicates heart valve disease; however, there are common signs and symptoms.

Heart Palpitations

• A very common symptom of heart valve disease is heart palpitations, or irregular heartbeats.

Heart Murmur

• A heart murmur can be detected by a doctor using a stethoscope as a swishing sound. Murmurs can be perfectly harmless, but can also be pathological (indicative of disease).

Edema

• Another frequent sign of heart valve disease is edema. Edema is swelling, usually observed in the feet and legs, that is caused by excess fluid buildup in the tissues.

Dizziness

• Dizziness that interferes with the ability to perform daily functions can indicate problems with heart valve function.

Breathing problems

• Consistent with a number of heart problems, shortness of breath while active can also be a sign of heart valve disease.

Diagnosis and Treatment

• Diagnosis tends to involve several steps including a physical exam in which the doctor listens to the heart, examination of symptoms and tests that can include an MRI, an angiogram and echocardiography. Treatment can vary depending on the exact nature and severity of the condition, but may include medications such as beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, vasodilators or surgery.