Overview

Valvular Heart Disease occurs when one or more of the heart valves do not function properly. The heart has four valves that regulate blood flow between its chambers and to the rest of the body. When a valve becomes narrowed (stenosis) or fails to close properly (regurgitation), blood flow becomes disrupted. This forces the heart to work harder to maintain circulation. Over time, abnormal valve function can strain the heart muscle. The severity of symptoms depends on the valve involved and the extent of dysfunction. Some cases develop gradually, while others may appear suddenly. If left untreated, valvular disease may lead to heart failure or other complications. Early diagnosis is important to prevent progressive damage.

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When a valve narrows, it restricts forward blood flow, causing pressure buildup in the heart. When a valve leaks, blood flows backward instead of moving forward efficiently. Both conditions increase the workload on the heart. Over time, the heart chambers may enlarge or weaken. Abnormal blood flow may also produce heart murmurs detectable during examination.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically begins with physical examination, where a heart murmur may be detected. Echocardiography is the primary tool used to assess valve structure and function. ECG may identify rhythm changes. Chest X-ray can reveal heart enlargement. In some cases, advanced imaging or cardiac catheterization may be required.