Listen to Your Heart: Recognizing the Signs of Valvular Heart Disease

Listen to Your Heart: Recognizing the Signs of Valvular Heart Disease

Valvular Heart Disease (VHD) is a condition whereby one or more of the heart’s valves do not work well; therefore, it disturbs blood flow within the heart. The heart has four kinds of valves: mitral, aortic, tricuspid, and pulmonary. All of these valves are very vital in ensuring blood travels in the right direction and out of the heart’s chambers to the body. When these valves are compromised, serious health issues can result. Early detection of the symptoms of VHD makes all the difference in outcomes since timely intervention will help prevent complications and offer improving quality of life.

Common Symptoms of Valvular Heart Disease

Chest Pain

Chest pain is evidently one of the primary symptoms of Valvular heart disease. Sometimes, this pain can be similarly reviewed to that of angina, such as compression, pressure, or squeezing on the chest, which may be mistaken for a heart attack. The pain takes place because the heart needs to pump blood harder through the narrowed or leaky valve. Seek immediate medical help from heart specialists at Apollo if you have unexplained chest pain which is severe or is associated with other symptoms.

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath, particularly during physical activity or when lying flat, is a hallmark symptom of VHD. This occurs because the heart cannot efficiently pump blood, leading to fluid accumulation in the lungs (congestive heart failure). You might notice difficulty in catching your breath during activities that you previously performed with ease, or you may need to prop yourself up with pillows at night to breathe more comfortably.

Fatigue

One of the possible symptoms of VHD is persistent fatigue and weakness. If the heart’s valves are not working properly, the body tissue will receive inadequate amounts of oxygenated blood, making one feel tired all the time. Trouble in performing everyday tasks may be encountered, and it greatly diminishes the quality of life. If you find that you are still very tired after adequate rest, it is best to discuss it with your healthcare provider.

Palpitations

Palpitations are sensations of rapid, fluttering, or pounding heartbeats. Irregular heart rhythms can be a reason for the problem, often connected with valvular difficulties. Valves that don’t close properly permit blood to backflow, thus needing the heart to work harder and beat rather irregularly. If you experience frequent palpitations in association with episodes of dizziness or near-fainting because of low blood pressure, consult a doctor.

Importance of Early Detection & Intervention

Early diagnosis of VHD is critical in preventing complications such as heart failure, heart attack, stroke, and sudden cardiac death. It requires alert monitoring and being on the lookout for symptoms that would otherwise render an early diagnosis feasible; hence, it is effectively treatable with medications, lifestyle modifications, and surgical interventions like valve repair or replacement.

Diagnostic Tests for Valvular Heart Disease

If VHD is suspected, several diagnostic tests can be performed:

• Echocardiogram: This imaging ultrasound test produces detailed pictures of the structure of the heart and its function—so doctors can obtain detailed glimpses of how well the valves are working.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG):This diagnostic test records the electrical activity of the heart and is able to detect irregular heart rhythms.
• Chest X-ray:It can show the size & shape of the heart and detect fluid in the lungs.
• Cardiac MRI: This provides detailed images of the heart’s structures and is useful in assessing the severity of VHD.
• Cardiac Catheterization: This medical procedure involves threading a catheter through the blood vessels to the heart to measure pressure within the heart chambers and to visualise the coronary arteries.

Maintaining Heart Health & Reducing Risk Factors

Effective ways of keeping a healthy heart with reduced risk factors for VHD include a number of lifestyle modifications and proactive health measures:
Healthy Diet

The basic part of a heart-healthy diet is concerned with overall cardiovascular health. In general, it means eating a wide variety of fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean sources of protein, and healthy fats. Include a limited intake of saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, salt, and added sugars. Especially, omega-3 enriched foods like fish, nuts, and seeds will help in keeping the heart fit.


Regular Exercise

Regular physical activity helps you strengthen your heart and improve circulation. Aim for at least 2 hours of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity or 1 hour of Vigorous-Intensity Aerobic Physical Activity throughout the week, and also incorporate muscle-strengthening activity into your routine on two or more days a week. Always remember to consult with your doctor before commencing any type of new exercise program, particularly if you have any prevailing conditions of the heart.

Weight Management

Keeping a healthy weight puts less stress on your heart and reduces the risk of Valvular heart disease and other heart diseases. If you are overweight or obese, losing even five to ten pounds may yield big health improvements.

Avoid Tobacco

Smoking and the use of tobacco are major risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, including VHD. Quit smoking to lessen the risk of VHD and improve overall heart health. Use smoking-cessation programs, medications, or counselling if you need support.


Limit Alcohol

Excessive drinking can cause high blood pressure, heart failure, and many more cardiovascular diseases. Drink alcohol in moderation. That means up to one drink daily for women and two drinks daily for men

Control Blood Pressure and Cholesterol

High blood pressure and high cholesterol are big risk factors for Valvular heart disease and other heart diseases. Keeping a tab on the conditions and taking necessary measures with the help of lifestyle changes and drugs will protect the heart from damage.


Manage Stress

Chronic stress is generally a risk factor for Heart Disease. Find healthy and effective ways that help manage stress, such as by practising mindfulness, engaging in hobbies, exercising, and seeking support from close friends, family, or mental health professionals.


Regular Checkups

This, therefore, calls for regular medical checkups to establish the Valvular heart disease early on for management. Mention symptoms or concerns to a doctor. Adhere to regular screening and the recommended diagnostic tests.

Valvular heart disease is a serious medical condition that can do much to change your health and quality of life. Being aware of the symptoms, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and palpitations, gives you an idea of when to seek proper diagnosis and seek medical intervention on time from reputed doctors at Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka. Early identification prevents the compilation process and leads to better treatment.

Why choose Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka?

Our doctors always advise maintaining heart health through a balanced diet, regular exercise, weight management, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, controlling blood pressure and cholesterol, managing stress, and having regular checkups can reduce or completely eliminate the risk of developing VHD and other cardiovascular diseases.

At Apollo, exceptional heart care is the core of our mission. Our dedicated team of cardiologists and cutting-edge technology ensure every patient receives personalised, comprehensive treatment. From prevention to advanced interventions, we are committed to restoring and maintaining heart health with compassion and excellence.

If you experience any symptoms of VHD, don’t hesitate to visit Apollo Hospitals. Trust our world-renowned heart doctors for a heart-healthy future.