Heart valve disease occurs when one or more of the heart valves do not open or close properly, affecting the normal flow of blood through the heart.

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The heart has four valves that ensure blood flows in the correct direction. If a valve becomes narrowed (stenosis) or leaky (regurgitation), the heart may have to work harder to maintain normal circulation.

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In many cases valve disease develops gradually and may cause few symptoms in the early stages. A cardiology assessment can help determine whether symptoms may be related to heart valve disease and whether further investigation is required.

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Symptoms of heart valve disease

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Symptoms depend on the type and severity of valve abnormality.

 

Possible symptoms include:

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• breathlessness, particularly during exertion
• fatigue or reduced exercise tolerance
• chest discomfort
• palpitations
• dizziness or fainting

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In some cases heart valve disease may be detected incidentally during routine examination or imaging.

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Types of heart valve disease

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The most commonly affected valves are the aortic valve and the mitral valve.

Examples include:

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• Aortic stenosis – narrowing of the aortic valve
• Aortic regurgitation – leaking of the aortic valve
• Mitral regurgitation – leaking of the mitral valve
• Mitral stenosis – narrowing of the mitral valve

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Each condition can affect the heart in different ways and may require different management strategies.

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Causes of heart valve disease

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Valve abnormalities may develop for several reasons, including:

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• age-related degeneration of the valves
• congenital valve abnormalities
• previous infection affecting the heart valves
• connective tissue disorders
• enlargement of the heart chambers

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The likelihood of valve disease generally increases with age.

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How heart valve disease is investigated

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Assessment usually involves imaging of the heart valves.

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Investigations may include:

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• echocardiography (heart ultrasound)
• electrocardiogram (ECG)
• cardiac MRI in selected cases

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These tests help assess the structure and function of the valves and determine whether treatment or monitoring is required.

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Treatment for heart valve disease

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Management depends on the type and severity of the valve abnormality.

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Treatment may include:

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• regular monitoring with echocardiography
• medications to manage symptoms or associated conditions
• lifestyle advice and cardiovascular risk management

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In some cases, procedures such as valve repair or valve replacement may be recommended if the valve abnormality becomes severe.

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When to seek medical advice

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You should consider cardiology assessment if you experience:

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• unexplained breathlessness
• reduced exercise tolerance
• dizziness or fainting episodes
• palpitations
• a known heart murmur requiring evaluation

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Consultation

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Private cardiology consultations with Dr Thomas Heseltine are available at Spire Murrayfield Hospital Wirral.

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Appointments include a detailed clinical assessment and advice regarding appropriate investigations such as echocardiography or cardiac MRI if required.