Heart Valve Regurgitation

Regurgitation is the backflow of the blood in the opposite direction due to improper closure of the heart valves. There are four types depending on which of the valves are affected.

1. Mitral regurgitation.
2. Aortic regurgitation.
3. Tricuspid regurgitation.
4. Pulmonary regurgitation.

Why Does It Occur?

It occurs spontaneously in some, while in others there is a gradual onset.

1. Acute:

• Heart attack.
• Endocarditis.

2. Chronic:

• Mitral valve prolapse.
• Rheumatic heart disease.
• Uncontrolled hypertension.

Symptoms

Many people with a valve problem do not realize there is something wrong as they do not experience any symptoms if the problem is too mild. Those who do have symptoms experience the following.

• Shortness of breath.
• Tiredness.
• Palpitations.
• Swelling of feet.

Apart from symptoms that patient personally experiences, the doctor may look out for some typical signs such as:

• Abnormal heart sounds (known as murmur) on a stethoscope.
• High blood pressure.
• Fluid build-up in the lungs.

Complications

1. Atrial fibrillation.
2. Pulmonary hypertension.
3. Increased risk of blood clots.
4. Stroke.

Treatment

1. Surgical repair.
2. Prosthetic replacement of the valve.

For more information consult a valvular heart problems specialist online --> https://www.icliniq.com/ask-a-doctor-online/cardiologist/valvular-heart-problems