The heart is a marvel of biological engineering — and at the center of its efficiency are four critical valves that ensure blood flows in the correct direction. Valvular heart disease occurs when one or more of these valves become damaged or dysfunctional, disrupting normal blood flow and placing strain on the heart.

At Z. Kounnis Cardiology Center, we diagnose and treat valvular conditions with precision and care, helping patients regain both heart function and quality of life.

🫀 What Is Valvular Heart Disease?

The heart has four valves — the aortic, mitral, tricuspid, and pulmonary — and they act as gates, opening and closing to control blood flow between the heart’s chambers and the rest of the body.

In valvular heart disease, these gates may:

• Narrow (a condition called stenosis), limiting blood flow.
• Leak (known as regurgitation), allowing blood to flow backward.
• Or fail to close/open properly, leading to mixed dysfunction.

Over time, this can cause the heart to work harder, leading to fatigue, shortness of breath, and eventually heart failure if left untreated.

🚨 Causes and Risk Factors

Valvular disease can develop for several reasons, including:

• Congenital heart defects – abnormalities present at birth.
• Rheumatic fever – often following untreated strep throat.
• Endocarditis – an infection of the heart’s inner lining.
• Aging – natural wear and tear can cause calcium deposits or tissue thickening.
• Degenerative changes – particularly in the mitral and aortic valves.

Lifestyle factors, high blood pressure, and a history of heart problems may increase the risk of developing valve issues later in life.

🩺 Common Symptoms of Valvular Heart Disease

In its early stages, valvular disease might not show any symptoms. But as the condition worsens, signs may include:

• Shortness of breath, especially with exertion or when lying down
• Fatigue or weakness
• Swollen ankles or feet
• Chest discomfort
• Dizziness or fainting
• A noticeable heart murmur heard with a stethoscope

Some patients may also experience palpitations or irregular heartbeats. Early detection makes a significant difference in managing progression.

🧪 How We Diagnose Valvular Disease

At Z. Kounnis Cardiology Center, we use cutting-edge diagnostics to assess valve function and heart health:

• Echocardiogram – the gold standard for visualizing valve movement and flow
• Electrocardiogram (ECG) – to detect rhythm abnormalities
• Chest X-ray – to evaluate heart size and fluid in the lungs
• Cardiac MRI or CT scan – in complex cases
• Cardiac catheterization – when surgical intervention is being considered

Our experienced cardiologists take a personalized, in-depth approach to each diagnosis.

🛠️ Treatment Options for Valvular Heart Disease

Treatment depends on the type, severity, and progression of the valve condition. Options include:

1. Medications

• Diuretics to reduce fluid buildup
• Beta-blockers or ACE inhibitors to reduce strain on the heart
• Blood thinners (anticoagulants) if there’s a risk of clotting

Medications can help manage symptoms but do not fix the valve itself.

2. Valve Repair

When feasible, valve repair is preferred over replacement, especially for mitral valves. Minimally invasive techniques allow quicker recovery and preserve more of the heart’s natural function.

3. Valve Replacement

Severely damaged valves may require replacement with either:

• Mechanical valves – durable but require lifelong anticoagulants.
• Biological valves – made from animal or human tissue, often preferred for older patients.

Advanced techniques like transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) offer alternatives to open-heart surgery for high-risk patients.

❤️ Living with Valvular Heart Disease

With modern diagnostics, expert care, and patient education, many people with valvular heart disease live full, active lives. The key is early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and consistent follow-up.

At Z. Kounnis Cardiology Center, our multidisciplinary team supports you at every stage — from initial evaluation to surgery, recovery, and long-term heart health management.