Mitral Valve Disease

Mitral valve disease refers to any condition that affects the mitral valve, which is one of the four valves in the heart. The mitral valve controls the flow of blood between the left atrium and the left ventricle.

 

Types

  • Mitral valve regurgitation: This occurs when the mitral valve doesn’t close properly, causing blood to flow backward into the left atrium during contraction of the heart.
  • Mitral valve stenosis: This condition is characterized by the narrowing or tightening of the mitral valve, which restricts blood flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle.
  • Mitral valve prolapse: In this condition, the valve leaflets bulge back into the left atrium during contraction, which can cause regurgitation.

 

Causes

The causes of mitral valve disease can vary depending on the specific type:

  • Mitral valve regurgitation: It can be caused by mitral valve prolapse, rheumatic fever, infective endocarditis, congenital valve abnormalities, heart muscle dysfunction, or a history of heart attacks.
  • Mitral valve stenosis: It is commonly caused by rheumatic fever, which is an inflammatory condition that can affect the heart valves. Other causes include congenital heart defects and calcium deposits on the valve leaflets.
  • Mitral valve prolapse: The exact cause is often unknown, but it can be linked to genetic factors, connective tissue disorders, or certain underlying medical conditions.

 

Symptoms

Symptoms of mitral valve disease can include:

  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or when lying flat
  • Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat
  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Swollen ankles or feet (edema)
  • Coughing, particularly at night or when lying flat
  • Frequent lung infections

 

Risk factors

The risk factors for developing mitral valve disease include:

  • History of rheumatic fever
  • Age (mitral valve regurgitation is more common with aging)
  • Family history of mitral valve disease or congenital heart defects
  • Certain connective tissue disorders, such as Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
  • Previous heart conditions, such as heart attacks or infective endocarditis

 

Diagnosis

To diagnose mitral valve disease, the following tests and assessments may be conducted:

  • Physical examination: Listening to the heart sounds and evaluating any abnormal sounds, such as a heart murmur.
  • Echocardiogram: This ultrasound test provides detailed images of the heart and can assess the structure and function of the mitral valve.
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG): This test records the electrical activity of the heart and can detect any abnormal heart rhythms.
  • Cardiac catheterization: In some cases, a thin tube is inserted into a blood vessel and guided to the heart to measure pressures and evaluate the severity of the condition.
  • Chest X-ray: This imaging test can show the size and shape of the heart and detect any signs of fluid buildup in the lungs.

 

Treatment

Treatment options for mitral valve disease depend on the severity of symptoms and the specific type of valve dysfunction. They may include:

  • Medications: Medications can help manage symptoms, control irregular heart rhythms, and reduce the risk of complications.
  • Mitral valve repair: Whenever possible, repairing the mitral valve is preferred over replacement. This can involve various techniques to restore the normal function of the valve.
  • Mitral valve replacement: In cases where repair is not feasible, the damaged valve may need to be replaced with a mechanical or biological valve.
  • Anticoagulant therapy: If a mechanical valve is used, long-term blood thinning medication may be required.
  • Monitoring and follow-up: Regular check-ups are essential to monitor the progression of the condition and adjust treatment as needed.

 

When to consult a physician

It is recommended to consult a physician if you experience symptoms associated with mitral valve disease or have known risk factors for developing the condition. Prompt medical attention is important to evaluate the severity of the condition, determine the appropriate treatment plan, and prevent complications.