Valvular heart disease, a condition that seems far away, is actually not far away. According to statistics, the incidence of heart valve disease in middle-aged and elderly people is increasing year by year, becoming one of the important factors affecting the health of this age group. Valves are the heart's "gatekeepers" and can lead to a range of serious health problems if they become impaired. However, many patients delay the optimal timing of treatment due to a lack of early recognition of symptoms and underestimation of the consequences of the disease.
Types of valvular heart disease and their symptoms: Know the enemy to defend effectively
There are two main types of valvular heart disease: valve stenosis and valve insufficiency. Each type of valvular disease has its own unique symptoms and potential health risks, and knowing this information is essential for early diagnosis and treatment.
1. Valvular Stenosis:
Valvular stenosis is when the heart valve is not fully opened, causing blood flow to be blocked. This condition is most common in the mitral and aortic valves. Aortic stenosis can cause chest pain, shortness of breath and syncope, which are often exacerbated by physical activity. Mitral stenosis, on the other hand, can cause atrial fibrillation, dyspnea, and fatigue, especially after activity.
2. Valvular insufficiency:
Valvular insufficiency, also known as valvular regurgitation, is when the heart valves do not close completely, causing blood to leak backwards. This condition is more common in the mitral and tricuspid valves. The main symptoms include severe fatigue, shortness of breath and palpitations. Long-term valvular regurgitation can lead to an enlarged heart and heart failure.
Non-specificity of symptoms and diagnostic challenges
The symptoms of valvular heart disease are often similar to those of other heart conditions, such as angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, etc., which requires doctors to confirm the diagnosis through a detailed physical examination and specialized cardiac imaging tests, such as echocardiography. An echocardiogram can not only evaluate the function of the valves, but also look for other possible abnormalities in the structure of the heart.
The grim consequences of untreated valvular heart disease
The pressure on the heart increases, causing heart failure
Untreated heart valve disease can put abnormal pressure on the heart. The function of the valve is to ensure that the blood flows properly in the heart, and when the valve is damaged or malfunctions, the heart needs more energy to pump the blood. Over time, this overexertion can lead to weakening of the heart muscle, which can eventually lead to heart failure. Heart failure is a serious condition that can cause breathlessness, extreme fatigue, and a significant decrease in quality of life.
Increased risk of heart attack
If left untreated, heart valve disease can lead to arrhythmias, which are abnormal heart rate or rhythm. Certain types of arrhythmias, such as ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation, can be life-threatening, and these conditions require immediate medical attention to prevent cardiac arrest. In addition, valvular disease may increase the risk of myocardial infarction.
Potential threat of stroke and systemic thrombosis
Dysfunction of heart valves may also lead to changes in blood flow dynamics, which may contribute to thrombosis. If these blood clots break off, they can be sent to the brain or other vital organs, leading to a stroke or impaired organ function. A stroke is a serious medical emergency that can lead to long-term disability or death.
The urgency of early treatment of valvular heart disease
Prevent further damage to the heart
Early diagnosis and treatment of valvular heart disease can be effective in preventing further damage to the heart structures. Treatment may include medications, valve repair or valve replacement surgery. With these treatments, the risk of heart failure and heart attack can be significantly reduced.
Improve quality of life and prolong life expectancy
Treatment can significantly improve the patient's quality of life and reduce the symptoms associated with the disease, such as chest pain, dyspnea, and limited mobility. In addition, timely medical intervention has been shown to prolong patients' life expectancy.
Reduce the incidence of complications
Treatment not only controls the lesions of the heart valve itself, but also prevents other serious health problems caused by heart valve disease, such as arrhythmias, myocardial infarction and stroke. Early treatment reduces the risk of these potentially fatal complications.
Through early intervention and comprehensive treatment, patients with valvular heart disease can hope to improve their condition, reduce the incidence of complications, and improve their quality of life and survival. Therefore, early detection of the condition, seeking professional treatment, and ongoing medical monitoring are essential for people with valvular heart disease. Close collaboration between family doctors, heart specialists and other healthcare professionals, as well as the active cooperation of patients and families, will help minimise the risks posed by valvular heart disease and provide a strong foundation for patient health and well-being.