Heart Valve Leakage- What is it?

For minor valve regurgitation, there are usually no symptoms. But when the heart valve leakage becomes severe and seriously impairs the right flow of blood it can cause symptoms like breathlessness and leg swelling or the retention of fluid elsewhere in the body, along with rapid heartbeat, dizziness, fatigue, heart fluttering, etc. It is to be noted that having a slightly leaky valve is very common for even the healthiest person, as long as it doesn t disrupt the blood flow.

Heart valve leakage can develop gradually over time or can occur all of a sudden. While diseases like rheumatic heart disease, Marfan syndrome often lead to this condition, endocarditis or the valve infection or high blood pressure may also contribute to the condition. For some, the presence of two flaps in the bicuspid aortic valve, instead of three is the reason behind valve leakage. The treatment for heart valve leakage often depends on the severity and the cause.

Doing light exercise daily like walking can help one improve the heart condition. Anything that improves the heart health such as quitting smoking or maintaining a healthy weight also helps in dealing with minor valve leakage. However, when the valve leakage becomes severe, surgical replacement or repairing becomes the only way of dealing with the condition. Before engaging in any strenuous activities such as contact or competitive sports, people with severe heart valve leakage needs to consult with their doctor.

When the valve regurgitation becomes severe, it may lead to heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, and atrial fibrillation. While the backward flow of blood places excessive strain on the heart leading to heart failure, the formation of blood clots due to atrial fibrillation can lead to the blood clots reaching the blood vessels in the brain causing a stroke. Once you notice any symptom of heart valve leakage, no matter how minor it is, don t delay in visiting a doctor to avoid a life threat.