Heart Valve Disease
Heart valve disease prevention and care
Novant Health Heart & Vascular Institute can help you determine if your heart murmur signals an underlying heart valve problem and, if so, your best options for treating it and living a long and healthy life.
Take the First Step
If you believe you are at risk for heart disease, it’s time to take the first step in improving your cardiac health. Visit your primary care provider to discuss your heart health to see if you need a referral to one of our heart specialists. If you do not have a primary care provider, follow the steps below to get started:
Step 1:
Visit your Primary
Care Provider
Step 2:
Discuss your
concerns
Step 3:
Your provider gives
a referral
Step 4:
Choose the right
specialist for you
What is heart valve disease?
Heart valve disease occurs when any valve in the heart stops functioning correctly and interferes with your circulation. A valve that does not close completely, for instance, can cause blood to leak backward. Another common condition is “stenosis,” or a narrowing and stiffening of a valve that prevents it from opening fully.
Causes and risk factors
Heart valve disease may result from a congenital heart defect, such as a malformed valve, or develop with age as the function of the heart muscle deteriorates. It can also be caused by infections like rheumatic disease or endocarditis, which can scar a heart valve. Other risk factors include:
Symptoms of heart valve disease
You may not notice symptoms of heart valve disease until the condition is advanced, in which case you could suddenly experience symptoms, including:
- Heart murmur
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or fainting
- Irregular heartbeat
Complications
Because damaged valves impair circulation, they can lead to serious health problems. They may also cause your heart to pump harder, which can lead to heart failure or sudden cardiac arrest.