One of the most essential components of the heart is the heart valve. They guarantee that our bodies receive enough blood flow. Any kind of flaw, no matter how small, in these valves can cause a wide range of problems, some of which can be fatal. This blog focuses on heart valves, symptoms of valve disorders, treatment options available for valve disorders, and the importance of consultation with Dr Manjinder Sandhu to ensure expert care.

Types of Heart Valves

The heart has four main chambers through which blood flows in and out with the help of these valves. With their rhythmic opening and closing with each heartbeat, they ensure blood flows forward. This is important so tissues receive sufficient oxygen to stay alive and do their work.

  • The aortic valve manages blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta.
  • The blood flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle is controlled by the mitral valve.
  • The blood flow from the right atrium into the left ventricle is directed by the tricuspid valve
  • The blood for the oxygenation of the lungs comes when the pulmonary valve sends blood from the right ventricle into the pulmonary arteries

The rhythmic functioning of these valves maintains the forward blood flow, without which one would require emergency medical assistance. If they were not there, or if one for whatever reason were not working right, the heart would have a tough time circulating the blood as quickly as it does now and could even be deterring life. 

The Heart Valves Function

Aortic valve  

It is one of the semilunar valves in the heart, allowing the blood to move from the left ventricle into the aorta, the most critical artery in the body. The aortic valve is in between the left ventricle and the aorta, supplying blood to various body parts. If the aortic valve isn't functioning properly, then you might experience chest pains, tiredness, and difficulty in breathing.  

Mitral Valve  

It can be spotted between the left atrium and the left ventricle and is an atrioventricular valve. 

The mitral valve stops the reverse blood flow, and any defects would cause palpitations, dizziness, or swelling of the legs.

Tricuspid Valve 

Situated between the right atrium and ventricle, it helps the blood flow in one direction. A malfunction of this valve may present symptoms similar to those for other valve conditions, including shortness of breath, swelling, and general fatigue.  

Pulmonary Valve  

The other semilunar valve in the heart is the pulmonary valve. Its main purpose is to allow deoxygenated blood to pass from the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery and, eventually, the lungs. Pulmonary valve defects affect overall oxygenation, and the whole body will face hindrances.

Treatment Availability

The treatment, in most cases, depends on the progression of any disease. But, we now have a sea of treatment options available for heart valve disease and defects with the advancement of modern science.

Medication Management

Symptoms caused by heart valve disease are usually treated with medication. In less severe cases, medication can prevent further advancement of the condition. Note that medicines do not necessarily fix the problem. Later stages may need surgery or valve replacement.

Surgical Interventions for Heart Valve

Artificial heart valves come across as popular, effective, long-term solutions. Doctors perform surgery to repair or replace a damaged heart valve. The type of surgery would depend on factors such as the type of valve, whether the patient is in good health, and the nature of his disease.

Signs of a Heart Valve Defect

Heart valve issues frequently appear gradually. But with time, the symptoms could get worse.

  • Fatigue: Blood flow issues are typically the cause of dizzy spells.
  • Chest Discomfort: Feeling of constriction or ache in the chest.
  • Breathing difficulties: Feeling out of breath when performing regular exercises or even when you're lying down.
  • Rapid Heartbeats: Fast and erratic heart rhythms.
  • Swelling: The abdomen, feet, or lower legs may swell.

These signs typically point to heart valve leaks and blockages. If treatment is not received, each of these illnesses has several serious side effects. Better treatment and outcomes are always available when symptoms are identified early.

Chest Discomfort

Alternative Methods of Treatment

In some cases, patients don't make suitable candidates for the surgery. Doctors resort to non-invasive methods like balloon valvuloplasty. These technologies are less invasive and can speed up improvement in the valve condition without open-heart surgery. There are also technological advancements to cure leaky heart valves without surgery, as some patients are not the ideal candidates for extensive procedures.

Recovery and Aftercare  

Patients are supposed to be under observation for an ample amount of time after a heart valve replacement surgery. While the surgical scar takes time, you must make some lifestyle changes. A proper diet and lifestyle are essential in managing recovery. After the operation, there are risks of complications, and thus, the patient will have to follow a strict diet for several months afterwards. 

Heart Valve Surgery Cost 

Heart valve replacement cost in India is around 2 lakhs and 5 lakhs. This number is an estimate as the cost can increase or decrease depending on other factors like the type of valve, difficulty of the surgery, etc.

Why Choose Dr. Manjinder Sandhu?  

Dr. Manjinder Sandhu is well-known for his strong reputation and continued dedication to providing individualised care. Heart valve problems can greatly affect a patient's life. If diagnosed and treated promptly, the majority of people can live normal, active lifestyles. Many treatment options are now accessible thanks to recent scientific progress in the field of medicine.

If you or someone you know is experiencing the symptoms or signs of heart valve defects, consult Dr Manjinder Sandhu by contacting him through his website.

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Max Hospital, B Block, Sushant Lok 1, Near Huda City Centre MF Husain Marg Near Huda City Centre, Sector 43, Gurugram, Haryana 122001

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