Valvular heart disease is a medical condition that affects one or more of the heart’s valves, vital in maintaining proper blood flow through the heart and the rest of the body. The human heart has four valves—the aortic, mitral, pulmonary, and tricuspid—that work like one-way doors, ensuring that blood flows in the right direction. When these valves do not open or close properly, they can disrupt blood flow, causing the heart to work harder & potentially leading to severe complications.
This medical condition can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as ageing, infections, congenital heart defects (problems present at birth), or damage caused by conditions like rheumatic fever. Valvular heart disease can present in different forms, such as valve stenosis (narrowing of the valve) or valve regurgitation (leakage of blood due to incomplete valve closure).
In this guide, we will explore the kinds of valvular heart disease, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention tips. Whether you want to understand the basics or find detailed information to help a loved one, this guide will provide valuable insights into managing and addressing valvular heart disease. Let’s dive deeper to learn more about this heart condition and how to ensure a healthier, stronger heart.
Table of Contents
Valvular Heart Disease Definition
Valvular heart disease occurs when 1 or more of the heart’s valves do not operate properly. The heart has four valves—the aortic, mitral, tricuspid, and pulmonary valves—which regulate blood flow by opening and closing at the right time. These valves secure that blood flows in the correct direction through the heart and to the rest of the body.
In valvular heart disease, the valves may either:
- Narrow and stiffen (stenosis) – This restricts blood flow, as the valve does not open fully.
- Leak blood (regurgitation) – This happens when the valve does not close tightly, letting blood flow backwards.
- Fail to open properly (prolapse) – The valve’s structure becomes weak or floppy, preventing proper blood flow.
This condition can be caused by ageing, congenital defects (present since birth), infections like endocarditis, or diseases such as rheumatic fever. It can lead to signs & symptoms like chest pain, breathlessness, fatigue, leg swelling, or irregular heartbeat.
Treatment For Valvular Heart Disease
The medical treatment of valvular heart disease depends on the severity of the medical condition, the specific valve affected, and the patient’s overall health. Different treatment choices are available in India, ranging from medications to surgical interventions. Below is a detailed explanation of the treatments, along with their approximate costs in India:
1. Medications
In mild cases of valvular heart disease, medications can help manage symptoms & avert the condition from worsening.
- Types of Medications:
- Diuretics: To decrease fluid buildup in the body and decrease the workload on the heart.
- Blood thinners (anticoagulants): To prevent blood clots, especially in conditions like atrial fibrillation.
- Beta-blockers or ACE inhibitors: To reduce blood pressure and improve heart function.
- Anti-arrhythmic drugs: To control irregular heartbeats.
- Cost:
Monthly medication costs in India can range from ₹1,000 to ₹3,000, based on the specific drugs prescribed.
2. Balloon Valvuloplasty (Non-Surgical Procedure)
This minimally invasive procedure is utilised to treat valve stenosis (narrowing). A catheter with a balloon at its tip is inserted through a blood vessel and guided to the affected valve. The balloon is inflated to widen the valve opening, improving blood flow.
- Who is it for?: Commonly used for younger patients or those who cannot undergo surgery.
- Cost in India: ₹1.5 to ₹3 lakhs.
3. Valve Repair Surgery
Doctors opt for this procedure if the valve can be repaired instead of replaced. The goal is to fix the valve to restore its normal function.
- Techniques used:
- Annuloplasty: Tightening or reinforcing the valve ring (annulus).
- Patching holes or tears in the valve.
- Reshaping valve leaflets (the flaps that open and close).
- Cost in India: ₹2 to ₹4 lakhs.
4. Valve Replacement Surgery
If the damaged valve cannot be repaired, it is replaced with a new valve. There are 2 primary types of replacement valves:
- Mechanical Valves: Made of durable materials like metal or plastic.
- Advantages: Long-lasting (can last a lifetime).
- Disadvantages: Requires lifelong use of blood thinners.
- Cost in India: ₹2.5 to ₹5 lakhs.
- Biological (Tissue) Valves: Made from animal or human tissues.
- Advantages: It does not require long-term blood thinners.
- Disadvantages: May need replacement after 10–15 years.
- Cost in India: ₹3 to ₹6 lakhs.
5. Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)
This is an advanced, minimally invasive procedure where the damaged valve is replaced through a catheter inserted in a blood vessel, avoiding open-heart surgery. It is commonly used for high-risk or elderly patients.
- Cost in India: ₹20 to ₹25 lakhs.
6. Open-Heart Surgery
In severe cases, open-heart surgery is performed to repair or replace the damaged valve. This involves making an incision in the chest and stopping the heart temporarily while the procedure is completed.
- Cost in India: ₹3.5 to ₹7 lakhs, depending on the hospital and complexity.
7. Minimally Invasive Valve Surgery
This is an alternative to open-heart surgery, involving smaller incisions and faster recovery. It can be used for valve repair or replacement.
- Cost in India: ₹4 to ₹8 lakhs.
8. Lifestyle Changes and Rehabilitation
Post-treatment, lifestyle modifications and cardiac rehabilitation programs are essential to improve heart health and prevent future complications.
- Changes may include:
- Following a heart-healthy diet (low in salt and fat).
- Regular physical activity as advised by the doctor.
- Managing conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
- Cost: The cost of cardiac rehabilitation programs in India ranges from ₹25,000 to ₹50,000 for a complete program.
India offers a variety of treatment options for valvular heart disease, catering to various budgets and medical needs. Early diagnosis & timely intervention are key to managing this condition effectively. Patients should consult a cardiologist to understand the best treatment option for their specific case. While the costs of procedures can vary, many hospitals in India offer financial assistance to make treatments more accessible.
Causes Of Valvular Heart Disease
Valvular heart disease happens when 1 or more of the heart’s valves are damaged or do not function properly. This can occur due to various reasons, which may develop over time or be present from birth. Below are the leading causes of valvular heart disease:
1. Aging and Degeneration
As people age, the heart valves can become stiff, thickened, or calcified due to wear and tear. This is called degenerative valve disease and is one of the most common causes in older adults. The aortic and mitral valves are especially prone to damage with ageing.
2. Rheumatic Fever
Rheumatic fever is an intricacy (complication) of untreated strep throat caused by a bacterial infection. It can lead to rheumatic heart disease, where the valves become scarred and narrowed. This is a significant cause of valvular heart disease in developing countries, including India.
3. Congenital Heart Defects
Some individuals are born with irregular heart valves, such as a valve with fewer or more cusps (flaps) than normal. This is called a congenital valve defect. For example, some people are born with a bicuspid aortic valve (only two flaps instead of three).
4. Endocarditis (Infection of the Heart Valves)
Endocarditis is the condition of the inner lining of the heart and its valves. It can happen when bacteria enter the bloodstream and reach the heart, causing damage to the valves. Poor dental hygiene, infected needles, or invasive medical procedures can increase the risk of endocarditis.
5. Calcification of Valves
Over time, calcium deposits may build up on the valves, especially the aortic valve, causing them to stiffen and narrow. This is called aortic stenosis and is often related to ageing.
6. Heart Attacks & Cardiomyopathy
A heart attack or disease that weakens the heart muscle (cardiomyopathy) can damage the heart valves, especially the mitral valve. This may lead to mitral regurgitation, where the valve leaks blood backwards into the heart.
7. Autoimmune Diseases
Medical conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation that damages the heart valves.
8. Radiation Therapy
People who have received radiation therapy to the chest, for example, as a treatment for cancer, may develop damage to the valves years later.
9. Other Causes
- Marfan syndrome or connective tissue disorders: These genetic conditions weaken the heart valves and make them prone to damage.
- High blood pressure or hypertension puts additional strain on the heart and can eventually affect the valves.
- Obesity & lifestyle factors: Poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, & excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to heart disease and valve damage.
Valvular Heart Disease Symptoms
The symptoms of valvular heart disease vary based on which valve is affected and the severity of the problem. Sometimes, people may not experience any symptoms until the condition becomes advanced. Here are the most common symptoms explained in simple terms:
1. Shortness of Breath
Difficulty breathing, mainly during physical activity or lying down, is a common symptom. This happens because the heart cannot pump blood efficiently, causing fluid buildup in the lungs.
2. Fatigue or Weakness
People with valvular heart disease may feel excessively tired or weak, even after light activities. This is because the heart struggles to deliver enough oxygen-rich blood to the body.
3. Chest Pain or Discomfort
Chest pain or a feeling of pressure in the chest can occur, particularly in cases of aortic stenosis. This happens when the heart has to work harder to pump blood through a contracted valve.
4. Heart Murmur
A heart murmur is an abnormal sound heard during a heartbeat. A doctor often detects it using a stethoscope, and it can be a key sign of valvular heart disease.
5. Irregular Heartbeat (Palpitations)
Some people may feel their heart racing, fluttering, or beating irregularly. This can be due to arrhythmias caused by the extra strain on the heart.
6. Swelling (Edema)
The ankles, feet, or abdomen can be swollen due to fluid retention. This happens because the heart is unfit to pump blood adequately, causing fluid to build up in the body.
7. Dizziness or Fainting
People with severe valve problems, especially aortic stenosis, may experience dizziness, lightheadedness, or even fainting during physical activity. This happens because the brain doesn’t receive enough blood.
8. Persistent Cough or Wheezing
A chronic cough, especially one that produces frothy or pink mucus, may indicate fluid buildup in the lungs caused by valvular heart disease.
9. Difficulty Exercising
People with valvular heart disease often find it hard to perform physical activities or exercises that were once easy for them, as the heart struggles to keep up with the increased demand for blood flow.
Valvular heart disease can have a wide range of causes and symptoms. While some cases develop slowly and go unnoticed for years, others may cause noticeable signs early on. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is vital to seek medical attention promptly.
Risk Factors & Complications Of Valvular Heart Disease
Risk Factors
Some factors increase the likelihood of developing valvular heart disease. Knowing these can help in early prevention and treatment:
- Ageing: The risk increases as people grow older due to wear and tear on the heart valves.
- Rheumatic Fever: A history of untreated strep throat can lead to valve damage later in life.
- Infections: Conditions like infective endocarditis (infection of the heart’s inner lining) can damage heart valves.
- Congenital Defects: Some people are born with heart valve abnormalities, like a bicuspid aortic valve.
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, obesity, poor diet, lack of exercise, and excessive alcohol consumption put extra strain on the heart.
- Chronic Conditions: High blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diseases like diabetes can increase the risk.
- Autoimmune Disorders: Health conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis can damage valves over time.
- Family History: If close relatives have heart valve issues, there is a higher chance of developing similar problems.
- Radiation Therapy: People who have received radiation treatment for cancer may have long-term valve damage.
Complications
If left untreated, valvular heart disease can cause serious and sometimes life-threatening complications:
- Heart Failure: When the heart cannot pump blood efficiently, leading to fatigue, breathlessness, and swelling in the body.
- Stroke: Damaged valves can cause blood clots, which may travel to the brain & cause a stroke.
- Arrhythmias: Irregular heartbeats, like atrial fibrillation, are common in people with valve issues and can cause further complications.
- Pulmonary Hypertension: High BP (blood pressure) in the lungs due to a poorly functioning valve can strain the heart.
- Infections: The risk of endocarditis increases if the valves are already damaged.
- Sudden Cardiac Arrest: In severe cases, untreated valve problems can result in sudden death.
Conclusion
Valvular heart disease is a serious condition, but with early diagnosis and proper treatment, many people can lead healthy lives. It’s important to be aware of the risk factors, symptoms, and complications and to seek medical attention promptly. Treatments like valve repair or replacement can be life-saving, but they can also be costly.
In India, the cost of surgeries and advanced treatments for valvular heart disease can be overwhelming for many families. Crowdfunding platforms like ImpactGuru can provide financial support. These platforms enable patients & their families to raise funds by sharing their stories and seeking help from friends, family, and generous donors. By pooling small contributions from many people, crowdfunding can make life-saving treatments affordable for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Valvular Heart Disease
1) How to Diagnose Valvular Heart Disease?
Valvular heart disease is diagnosed using a combination of medical history, physical exams, and tests:
- Medical History & Physical Exam: A doctor listens for abnormal heart sounds (murmurs) with a stethoscope.
- Echocardiogram: This ultrasound test provides pictures of the heart valves to check for abnormalities.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Records the heart’s electrical activity to detect irregularities.
- Chest X-ray: Shows the size of the heart and any fluid buildup in the lungs.
- Cardiac MRI or CT Scan: Provides detailed images of the heart and its valves.
- Cardiac Catheterization: Used to measure pressure in the heart chambers and examine blood flow.
2) What Causes Valvular Heart Disease?
Valvular heart disease can have many causes, including:
- Aging and wear and tear on the valves.
- Rheumatic fever, which leads to scarring of the valves.
- Congenital heart defects, like being born with an abnormal valve.
- Infections, such as infective endocarditis.
- Chronic conditions like high blood pressure or autoimmune diseases.
3) What is Valvular Heart Disease?
Valvular heart disease takes place when one or more of the heart’s valves fail to open or close properly. This can disrupt blood flow, causing symptoms like breathlessness, fatigue, and chest pain. The condition may require treatments like medication, valve repair, or valve replacement. If left untreated, it can cause severe intricacies like heart failure or stroke.
