What happen when the valves stop working?

When the valves stop working, several important functions in the body can be affected.

1. Heart Valves: If the heart valves malfunction, blood flow through the heart and to the rest of the body can become disrupted. This can lead to a variety of heart conditions, including:

* Aortic stenosis: The aortic valve, which controls blood flow from the heart to the aorta (the main artery of the body), may become narrowed or obstructed, restricting blood flow. This can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue.

* Mitral stenosis: The mitral valve, which controls blood flow from the left atrium (upper chamber of the heart) to the left ventricle (lower chamber of the heart), may become narrowed or obstructed, causing blood to back up into the lungs. This can lead to shortness of breath, coughing, and fatigue.

* Tricuspid stenosis: The tricuspid valve, which controls blood flow from the right atrium to the right ventricle, may become narrowed or obstructed, causing blood to back up into the body's veins. This can lead to swelling in the legs, ankles, and abdomen, as well as fatigue.

2. Venous Valves: The valves in the veins help to ensure that blood flows back to the heart against gravity. When these valves malfunction, it can lead to a condition called venous insufficiency. This can cause symptoms such as leg pain, swelling, and varicose veins.

3. Other Valves: Malfunctioning valves can also affect other parts of the body, such as the urinary tract and the digestive system. In the urinary tract, malfunctioning valves can lead to incontinence or urinary tract infections. In the digestive system, malfunctioning valves can cause problems with swallowing or digestion.

If you experience symptoms that suggest a valve problem, it's important to see a doctor for evaluation and treatment. Treatment options for valve problems may include medication, surgery, or other interventions to restore proper valve function.