Mitral Stenosis: Understanding This Heart Valve Disorder
Mitral stenosis is a heart condition where the mitral valve, located between the left atrium and left ventricle of the heart, becomes narrowed. This narrowing restricts blood flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle, leading to a backup of blood and increased pressure in the lungs.
Symptoms of Mitral Stenosis:
- Shortness of breath: This is often the first and most common symptom, especially during exertion.
- Fatigue: Due to the heart's reduced ability to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.
- Rapid heartbeat (atrial fibrillation): An irregular heartbeat that can worsen symptoms.
- Cough: Often productive of pink, frothy sputum (blood-tinged).
- Chest discomfort or palpitations.
- Swelling in the ankles, legs, and abdomen (edema).
- Fainting (syncope).
Causes of Mitral Stenosis:
- Rheumatic fever: This is the most common cause, resulting from an untreated strep throat infection.
- Calcification: The mitral valve leaflets can become hardened and thickened with age, leading to narrowing.
- Congenital heart defects: In some cases, individuals are born with a narrowed mitral valve.
Diagnosis of Mitral Stenosis:
- Physical examination: Listening to the heart sounds (auscultation) can reveal characteristic murmurs.
- Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart provides detailed images of the valve and assesses its function.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): To check for heart rhythm abnormalities.
- Chest X-ray: To evaluate the size of the heart and the presence of fluid in the lungs.
Treatment of Mitral Stenosis:
- Medications: To manage symptoms and reduce complications. These may include diuretics to reduce fluid buildup, blood thinners to prevent blood clots, and medications to control heart rhythm.
- Balloon mitral valvuloplasty: A minimally invasive procedure where a balloon is inflated within the narrowed valve to widen the opening.
- Mitral valve replacement surgery: In severe cases, surgical replacement of the damaged valve with a mechanical or biological valve may be necessary.
Living with Mitral Stenosis:
- Regular checkups: Regular monitoring by a cardiologist is essential to track the progression of the condition and adjust treatment as needed.
- Lifestyle modifications: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking, can help manage symptoms and improve overall heart health.