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Treatment for Heart Valve
Disease

Heart valve disease refers to any type of condition that impacts one or more of the heart’s valves. The heart is made up of four distinct valves that function to ensure blood flows in the correct direction. These valves can be impacted by various problems, including stenosis (narrowing), regurgitation (leakage), or prolapse (abnormal bulging). Heart valve disease can be congenital (you are born with it) or acquired due to conditions such as rheumatic fever, infections, or aging.

Symptoms of heart valve disease may include having a hard time catching your breath, chronic tiredness, chest discomfort/pain, palpitations, and swallowing in the feet or ankles.

Treatment options range from medications to surgical repair or replacement of the affected valves.

Medications to Treat Heart Valve Disease

The treatment approach for heart valve disease depends on the condition’s severity and the type of valve involved. Medications are often used to help manage symptoms and improve heart function. Often, even with medications, you will still require a surgical repair or replacement even with medications.

Below are medications used to treat heart valve disease:

  • Diuretics: Diuretics like furosemide or spironolactone help reduce fluid retention and alleviate symptoms such as swelling and shortness of breath.
  • Beta-blockers: These drugs may be prescribed to slow the heart rate, relieve symptoms, and improve the efficiency of the heart’s pumping action.
  • ACE inhibitors or ARBs: The medications may be used to lower blood pressure, prevent fluid buildup, and improve your heart’s function.
  • Anticoagulants: If you are at risk of developing blood clots due to a poorly functioning valve then anticoagulant drugs like warfarin or direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) may be given to reduce the likelihood of clot formation

Side Effects of Medications for Heart Valve Disease

Heart valve disease occurs when one or more of the heart valves are damaged or does not function properly. Medications may be used to manage symptoms or prevent complications before undergoing valve surgery.

Each one can cause side effects.

  • Diuretics: Diuretics help reduce fluid buildup of fluid in the body that can cause symptoms like swelling and shortness of breath. You may experience an increase in urination, electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, low blood pressure, and potassium deficiencies.
  • Beta-blockers: They can cause fatigue, dizziness, low blood pressure, slow heart rate, and sexual dysfunction in some individuals.
  • Anticoagulants: Medications like warfarin or direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) put you at an increased risk of bleeding.
  • ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs): May cause a cough that is dry, low blood pressure, dizziness, and kidney issues.
  • Digitalis medications: Digitalis often causes extreme stomach upset, headache, dizziness, and abnormal heart rhythms.

Conclusion

Medications used for heart valve disease are important for managing symptoms, improving heart function, and enhancing the quality of life. These medications target valve dysfunction and help control fluid retention, regulate heart rhythm, control blood pressure, and prevent blood clot formation. Combined with lifestyle changes, medications can improve everyday life.

 
 
 

The content appearing on this site is not intended to treat, diagnose, or provide health care advice. The articles you read here are meant for informational purposes only. Please review additional information to learn more.