What Happens When Heart Valves Get Damaged?
When heart valves become damaged or diseased, they can cause two main problems. The first problem is called stenosis, which occurs when the valve fails to open fully, resulting in restricted or obstructed blood flow. This forces the heart to work harder to pump blood through the narrow opening, leading to increased strain on the heart. Over time, the heart muscle may become thicker in order to compensate for the extra effort. While this can initially strengthen the heart, it can eventually become problematic if the blood supply to the heart becomes insufficient to sustain the additional tissue.
The second complication that can arise from damaged heart valves is regurgitation. This occurs when the valve fails to close properly, causing blood to leak backward. As a result, the heart has to pump harder to deliver the same volume of blood, leading to additional strain on the heart. If left untreated, regurgitation can eventually lead to a build-up of fluid in the lungs, further complicating the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively.
Causes of Heart Valve Disease
Heart valve disease can be caused by various factors. One common cause is being born with one or more abnormal valves. Additionally, the condition can develop as a complication of rheumatic fever, cardiomyopathy, or endocarditis. The risk of developing the disease also increases with advanced age, as the flexibility or shape of the valves can change over time.
There are several other risk factors associated with heart valve disease. These include having a family history of early-onset heart disease, having diabetes, leading a sedentary lifestyle with lack of physical activity, and having certain autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis.