Introduction

Valvular heart disease affects the valves that regulate blood flow through the heart. These valves ensure that blood moves in the right direction, and when they fail to open or close properly, the heart must work harder to maintain efficient circulation. Over time, this extra strain can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, palpitations, and swelling in the legs or abdomen. While many patients can be managed with medications and lifestyle measures in the early stages, some eventually require surgical intervention to restore proper valve function.

According to Dr. Rohit Kumar, timely identification of surgical indications is essential to prevent complications such as heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, and irreversible heart muscle damage. Early diagnosis, regular monitoring, and appropriate treatment can significantly improve quality of life and long-term outcomes for patients with valvular heart disease.

Understanding Heart Valve Disease

The heart has four valves — mitral, aortic, tricuspid, and pulmonary — that ensure blood flows in one direction through the heart chambers. Valvular heart disease occurs when one or more of these valves fail to function properly, either becoming narrowed (stenosis), which restricts blood flow, or leaky (regurgitation), which allows blood to flow backward.

Common causes of valvular heart disease include:

• Age-related degeneration: Natural wear and tear of valve tissue over time.
• Rheumatic heart disease: Damage caused by rheumatic fever, often following a streptococcal infection.
• Congenital valve defects: Structural abnormalities present from birth.
• Infections such as infective endocarditis: Bacterial infections that damage the heart valves.

Over time, abnormal valves can disrupt normal blood flow, forcing the heart to work harder. This added strain can weaken the heart muscle, reduce pumping efficiency, and lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, palpitations, swelling in the legs, or even fainting. Early recognition and monitoring are crucial to prevent complications and maintain heart health.

Symptoms That Suggest Worsening Valve Disease

In early stages, many patients remain symptom-free. As the disease progresses, symptoms may appear, including:

• Shortness of breath during activity or rest
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Fatigue and reduced exercise tolerance
• Swelling of legs or abdomen
• Palpitations or fainting spells

Dr. Rohit Kumar emphasizes that the appearance of symptoms often signals the need for further evaluation and possible surgical treatment.

How Is Valvular Heart Disease Evaluated?

Diagnosis and monitoring involve:

• Echocardiography to assess valve structure and function
• Electrocardiogram to detect rhythm abnormalities
• Chest X-ray to evaluate heart size
• Cardiac catheterization in selected cases

Regular follow-up is essential, even in patients without symptoms.

When Is Surgery Needed For Valvular Heart Disease?

Surgery is recommended when the benefits outweigh the risks. According to Dr. Rohit Kumar, common indications include:

• Severe valve stenosis or regurgitation on echocardiography
• Onset or worsening of symptoms
• Declining heart pumping function
• Enlargement of heart chambers
• Failure of medical therapy to control symptoms
• Complications such as heart failure or pulmonary hypertension

Delaying surgery in advanced disease can lead to irreversible heart damage.

Types Of Valve Surgery

Depending on the valve involved and disease severity, treatment options include:

• Valve repair, which preserves the patient’s own valve
• Valve replacement using mechanical or tissue valves
• Minimally invasive or open-heart surgical approaches

Dr. Rohit Kumar carefully evaluates each patient to choose the most appropriate and safest option.

Life After Valve Surgery

Most patients experience significant improvement in symptoms and quality of life after surgery. Recovery includes:

• Cardiac rehabilitation
• Regular follow-up visits
• Lifestyle modifications
• Medications such as blood thinners when required

With proper care, many patients return to normal activities within weeks to months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can valve disease be treated without surgery?

Mild and moderate cases can often be managed with medications and monitoring, but severe disease usually requires surgery.

Is valve surgery high risk?

Advances in surgical techniques have significantly improved safety. Risk depends on age, overall health, and disease severity.

How long do artificial heart valves last?

Mechanical valves can last a lifetime, while tissue valves typically last 10 to 15 years.

What happens if surgery is delayed?

Delaying surgery can lead to heart failure, rhythm problems, and reduced survival.

Conclusion

Valvular heart disease is a progressive condition that requires careful monitoring. Recognizing the right time for surgery is key to preventing complications and ensuring the best outcomes.

Dr. Rohit Kumar stresses that early referral, accurate diagnosis, and timely intervention can significantly improve long-term heart health.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with valvular heart disease or is experiencing symptoms such as breathlessness or chest discomfort, consult Dr. Rohit Kumar for expert evaluation and personalized treatment planning. Early action can save heart function and improve quality of life.