How to Treat Mitral Stenosis

The heart contains four valves that regulate the flow of blood. One of these, the mitral valve, connects the upper chamber and lower chamber on the left side of the heart. In mitral valve stenosis, there is narrowing or blockage in the opening of the mitral valve that causes it to malfunction. It lacks the capacity to open normally and prevents proper flow of the blood from the upper left chamber of the heart (atrium) to the lower left chamber of the heart (ventricle). The decreased efficiency of the mitral valve does not only affect the blood flow of the heart itself, but also the flow of blood to the rest of the body. Symptoms will then start to appear as a result of an improper blood flow. There will be a feeling of tiredness and weakness, especially during activities. Ankles and feet appear swollen and shortness of breath sets in, which becomes worse when in lying position or when exerting an effort. Rapid pulsations of the heart appear along with chest discomfort. Respiratory problems may also appear such as bronchitis, severe coughing, and sometimes coughing up sputum with blood. All of the underlying mitral stenosis symptoms worsen when doing any activity that requires effort. The manifestations of mitral valve stenosis may occur at any age but most often between the ages of 20 and 50 years old. The aim of treatment for mitral valve stenosis is to control the symptoms and to treat possible complications.

Instructions

Treatment for Mitral Stenosis

• 1

  Take medications that will help decrease or control symptoms. Anti-coagulants may be given to prevent formation or traveling of blood clots from the heart to the different parts of the body. Diuretics are administered to reduce fluid accumulations in the lungs or any affected parts of the body. Digoxin may be prescribed to treat atrial fibrillation.

• 2

  Avoid doing strenuous activities and get plenty of rest. Relaxation plays a huge part in alleviating fatigue.

• 3

  Maintain an upright position. When lying down, do so on an incline. This position will help to facilitate proper breathing.

• 4

  Do breathing exercises. This will improve the expansion of your lungs and will help to regulate proper breathing when shortness of breath strikes.

• 5

  Schedule a procedure to repair or replace the damaged mitral valve. Both procedures will help in clearing up the passage way of the mitral valve, which will promote proper blood flow through the heart and the whole body.

• 6

  Consult your doctor about valvuloplasty or percutaneous mitral balloon. This is a procedure in which a catheter is inserted into a vein in the leg all the way up to the heart. The balloon on the tip of the catheter is inflated to widen the narrowed space of the mitral valve, thus improving the flow of blood.