Heart valve disease is associated with symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain. If left untreated, heart valve disease can progress to far more serious conditions, some of which may be life threatening.
Heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood effectively. As a result, the heart begins to work much harder, which can cause significant damage.
Strokes usually occur when a blood vessel in the brain becomes obstructed, which can impede or prevent blood flow. Strokes can also result from a bleeding blood vessel in the brain. Strokes are a medical emergency that require immediate medical attention to prevent permanent brain damage or even loss of life.
Blood vessels can also be obstructed by the formation of clots, a medical condition known as thrombosis. Blood clots are especially dangerous in the heart and lungs, as they can significantly impede proper function of these organs.
Also known as arrhythmia, an irregular heart rhythm is caused by faulty electrical signalling in the heart. As a result, the heart may beat faster or slower than normal. Abnormal heart rhythms also carry a risk of cardiac arrest, which can lead to death without urgent medical attention.
Heart valve disease often causes the following symptoms:
If you experience one or more of these symptoms, visit a doctor as soon as possible. Symptoms of heart valve disease can mimic many other conditions and disorders, so it is important to determine the underlying cause.
When it comes to treatment, be sure to take all medications according to your doctor’s instructions. Making certain changes to your lifestyle, such as eating right, exercising regularly, and avoiding cigarettes and alcohol, can also preserve your heart health.
Be sure to follow up with your doctor as needed. If heart valve disease progresses, you may require a surgical procedure to manage symptoms and prevent worsening effects.