Heart Valve Disease

Diseased Heart Valve Symptoms - Warning Signs and Treatment in India

A diseased heart valve may not cause symptoms for a long time. When they do appear, they can affect your daily life. This short explains some common signs to be aware of.

What are the common symptoms?

Symptoms can develop slowly and may only be noticeable when you are active.

• Shortness of breath. You may feel breathless during activity or even when lying down. This can happen if the heart has to work harder to pump blood.
• Chest discomfort. This can feel like pressure or tightness in your chest. It may occur during exertion and can sometimes spread to your arm or neck.
• Fatigue. Feeling unusually tired is a common symptom. You may lack the energy for your normal daily activities.
• Dizziness or fainting. A faulty valve can reduce blood flow to the brain, which may cause light-headedness or fainting spells.
• Swollen ankles. Fluid can build up in your legs, ankles and feet if your heart is not pumping blood around the body efficiently.

What happens next?

If you experience these symptoms, it is a good idea to speak with a doctor.

• Diagnosis. A doctor can listen to your heart for a murmur. They may then suggest tests like an echocardiogram to see how your valves are working.
• Monitoring. If your condition is mild, a specialist may recommend monitoring it over time rather than immediate treatment.
• Treatment options. Treatment depends on the specific valve problem and your overall health. It can range from medication to manage symptoms to surgery to repair or replace the valve.

Whether a particular treatment is suitable for you depends on your individual case. A final decision can only be made after a specialist has reviewed your medical reports and recent imaging.