Introduction

Valvular heart disease is a condition in which one or more valves in the heart do not function properly. The four valves in the heart are responsible for directing blood flow in the proper direction, and when one or more of them do not open or close correctly, it can disrupt the flow of blood through the heart to the rest of the body.

Signs and symptoms of Valvular Heart Disease

Valvular heart disease can progress rapidly or over an extended period of time. When valvular disease progresses slowly, there may not be any symptoms until the disease has reached a critical stage. On the other hand, if the disease progresses rapidly, individuals may experience a variety of symptoms, such as:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Fever
• Rapid weight gain
• Irregular heartbeat

Causes of Valvular Heart Disease

• Congenital conditions (being born with it)
• Infections
• Degenerative conditions (wearing out with age)
• Conditions linked to other types of heart diseases

Understanding Valvular Heart Disease in Ayurveda

According to Ayurveda, the proper functioning of the heart is compromised due to the prolonged accumulation of Ama (toxins) in the heart. The accumulation of Ama in the endocardium may be caused by poor dietary habits, emotional and psychological trauma, reduced digestive fire, etc., which can lead to the development of Kabhatika Hridroga (valvular heart disease).

Treatment and Management

Valvular heart disease treatment and management typically involves lifestyle changes and surgical intervention (repair or replacement of the heart valve).

Care offered by SGP’s PSA has been demonstrated to be effective in alleviating symptoms and enhancing the quality of life for patients with valvular heart disease. The primary focus of care delivered by the PSA is to manage symptoms, address emotional and psychological distress, and improve overall comfort.

FAQs about Valvular Heart Disease

1. Do heart valves leak with age?

   While some individuals are born with congenital heart defects that increase their risk of developing leaky heart valves, many people develop leaky heart valves as they age. The heart can become enlarged as we get older, affecting the ability of the valves to close correctly and causing them to leak.

2. Can Valvular heart disease cause heart failure?

   When the heart’s valves are diseased/damaged, the heart cannot pump blood efficiently throughout the body. The heart has to pump harder to keep up with the flow of blood, either while it is leaking back into the chamber or when it is pumping against a narrow opening. This can lead to heart failure, sudden cardiac arrest, or even death.

3. Do echocardiograms need to be performed on a regular basis for valvular heart disease?

   The frequency of performing an echocardiogram is determined by the severity of the valvular heart disease. In mild cases, an echocardiogram may be performed after a regular interval of three years for monitoring the disease progression. In severe cases, an echocardiogram may be conducted every six months and may be accompanied, if necessary, by additional tests such as transoesophageal echocardiogram or exercise echocardiogram

4. What can be used to replace a heart valve? 

   The damaged heart valve can be replaced with a mechanical valve, or a biological tissue valve (valve made from pig, cow, or human heart tissue).

5. How long will it take to recover from heart valve surgery?

   In general, the majority of patients who undergo a heart valve surgery recover to a high degree of activity within one week. However, it is recommended that restrictions be maintained until the wound has fully healed, which typically takes approximately six weeks. In cases of minimally invasive surgery, the patient’s recovery is faster, and their full range of activity can be restored in a shorter period of time.