Heart valve disease
Aortic and mitral conditions
Summary
Heart valves control the direction of blood flow through your heart. Valves can become narrowed (stenosis) or leaky (regurgitation). Mild disease is often watched over time; more advanced disease may need valve repair or replacement. Modern options like TAVR allow many patients to avoid open-heart surgery.
When to call us
- •New shortness of breath with activity
- •Dizziness or fainting, especially with exertion
- •Chest pain or tightness
- •Swelling in legs or abdomen
Questions to ask your doctor
- 1.Which valve is affected and how severely?
- 2.How often should I have an echocardiogram?
- 3.What symptoms would mean I need treatment now?
- 4.Am I a candidate for TAVR or other catheter-based repair?
- 5.Do I need antibiotics before dental work?
Full guide on CardioSmart
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