Mitral Valve Stenosis

Mitral valve stenosis is a condition characterized by the narrowing or tightening of the mitral valve, which is located between the left atrium and the left ventricle of the heart.

 

Causes

The most common cause of mitral valve stenosis is rheumatic fever, which is a complication of untreated streptococcal throat infection. Other less common causes include congenital heart defects affecting the mitral valve, blood clot formation, or certain autoimmune conditions.

 

Symptoms

The severity of symptoms in mitral valve stenosis can vary. Some individuals may not experience noticeable symptoms, while others may have the following:

  • Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or when lying flat
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmias)
  • Chest discomfort or pain, often experienced as a tightness or pressure
  • Swelling of the ankles, feet, or abdomen due to fluid retention

 

Risk Factors

Several factors may increase the risk of developing mitral valve stenosis:

  • History of rheumatic fever: This inflammatory condition can lead to scarring and thickening of the mitral valve.
  • Age: Mitral valve stenosis is more commonly seen in individuals who had rheumatic fever in childhood or adolescence.
  • Gender: Females are more likely to develop mitral valve stenosis than males.
  • Geographic location: Certain regions with a higher prevalence of rheumatic fever have an increased risk of mitral valve stenosis.

 

Diagnosis

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

  • Physical examination: A healthcare provider may listen to the heart using a stethoscope to detect a heart murmur or other abnormal sounds.
  • Echocardiogram: This imaging test uses sound waves to create images of the heart. It can assess the structure and function of the mitral valve and measure the severity of stenosis.
  • 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

The treatment options for mitral valve stenosis depend on the severity of symptoms and the degree of narrowing in the valve. They may include:

  • Medications: Medications can be prescribed to manage symptoms, control irregular heart rhythms, and prevent blood clots.
  • Balloon valvuloplasty: This procedure involves inserting a deflated balloon into the narrowed valve and inflating it to widen the opening.
  • Mitral valve repair or replacement: In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair the valve or replace it with a mechanical or biological valve.
  • Infective endocarditis prevention: Antibiotics may be recommended before certain dental or surgical procedures to prevent infective endocarditis in individuals with mitral valve stenosis.

 

When to consult a physician

It is advisable to consult a physician if you experience symptoms associated with mitral valve stenosis, such as shortness of breath, chest discomfort, or significant fatigue. Additionally, if you have a known history of rheumatic fever or have been diagnosed with mitral valve stenosis and your symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop, it is recommended to seek medical attention.