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What is Mitral Valve Stenosis?

Mitral valve stenosis is a heart condition where the mitral valve becomes narrow. This valve sits between the left upper and lower chambers of your heart. When it gets too tight, blood cannot flow easily from one chamber to the other. As a result, your heart must work harder to pump blood. Over time, this can cause health problems. Mitral valve stenosis often develops slowly, but symptoms can appear suddenly. Early detection is important for better outcomes.

Common Symptoms

Many people with mitral valve stenosis may not notice symptoms at first. However, as the condition worsens, signs become more obvious. For example, you might feel tired or short of breath. Other symptoms can include:

Shortness of breath, especially during exercise or when lying down

Fatigue or feeling weak

Swelling in your feet or ankles

Irregular or fast heartbeat (palpitations)

Chest discomfort or pain

Coughing, sometimes with blood-tinged mucus

Sometimes, symptoms get worse during pregnancy or with infections. If you notice these signs, it is important to seek medical help.

Causes and Risk Factors

Mitral valve stenosis has several causes. The most common cause worldwide is rheumatic fever. This illness can damage the heart valve years after the infection. In some cases, people are born with a narrow mitral valve. Other causes include calcium buildup on the valve or certain autoimmune diseases.

Risk factors for mitral valve stenosis include:

History of rheumatic fever

Older age

Family history of heart valve disease

Autoimmune conditions, such as lupus

While some causes cannot be prevented, knowing your risks can help you stay alert for symptoms.

How is Mitral Valve Stenosis Diagnosed?

Doctors use several tests to diagnose mitral valve stenosis. First, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and listen to your heart. Often, a special sound called a “murmur” can be heard with a stethoscope. Next, you may need tests such as:

Echocardiogram: This test uses sound waves to create pictures of your heart. It shows how well the mitral valve is working.

Electrocardiogram (ECG): This test checks your heart’s rhythm and electrical activity.

Chest X-ray: This can show if your heart is enlarged or if there is fluid in your lungs.

Cardiac catheterization: In some cases, doctors use this test to measure pressure inside your heart.

Early diagnosis helps prevent complications. If you have symptoms, ask your doctor about these tests.

Treatment Options

Treatment for mitral valve stenosis depends on how severe your condition is. Some people need only regular check-ups. Others may need medicine or procedures. Common treatments include:

Medications: These can help control symptoms. For example, diuretics reduce fluid buildup, and beta-blockers slow your heart rate.

Balloon valvuloplasty: In this procedure, a small balloon is used to widen the valve.

Surgery: Sometimes, doctors repair or replace the mitral valve if other treatments do not work.

Your doctor will choose the best treatment based on your needs. Regular follow-up is important to monitor your heart health.

Lifestyle Tips and Prevention

Although you cannot always prevent mitral valve stenosis, healthy habits can help your heart. For example, you can:

Eat a balanced diet low in salt and fat

Exercise regularly, as advised by your doctor

Avoid smoking and limit alcohol

Manage high blood pressure and diabetes

Take antibiotics before dental work if your doctor recommends it

Additionally, treating strep throat quickly can lower your risk of rheumatic fever. Regular check-ups help catch problems early.

When to See a Doctor

“If you notice symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, or swelling, see a doctor soon. Early treatment can prevent serious problems. Even if you feel fine, regular heart check-ups are important if you have risk factors. Do not wait for symptoms to get worse. Your doctor can guide you on the best steps for your health.

Consult a cardiologist for personalized advice and early management of mitral valve stenosis at Magenta Super Specialty Clinics.”