Mitral Valve Disease occurs when the valve between the left chambers of the heart doesn’t function properly, causing blood to leak backward, which makes it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively.
According to Dr. Yugal Kishore Mishra Chairman, Manipal Institute of Cardiac Sciences Manipal Hospital Dwarka, New Delhi, the most common form, mitral valve regurgitation, can lead to serious heart problems if left untreated.
“One of the key symptoms of this condition is an irregular heartbeat, which may start mild and worsen over time,” Dr. Mishra told Financial Express.com.
What are the symptoms of Mitral Valve Disease?
Symptoms to watch for include:
- Shortness of breath, especially when lying down
- Palpitations or a fluttering feeling in the chest
- Swelling in the feet or ankles
- Unusual fatigue
- Dizziness or weakness
While this disease can affect anyone, it’s more common in adults as heart function tends to weaken with age, Dr. Mishra told Financial Express.com.
“Treatment generally includes minimally invasive or open-heart procedures, often accompanied by post-surgery therapies. Heart surgery typically involves repairing or replacing the damaged valves through procedures such as annuloplasty or leaflet repair. The recommended treatment is tailored to a person’s specific condition, to ensure effective care and recovery,” he said.
