Did you know that nearly 700,000 people die each year from heart attacks? Heart valve problems can be a major contributor to these deaths, and they are becoming increasingly common.
We’ve put together a brief guide that can help you identify heart problems in order to better preserve your heart health. Let’s take a closer look.
Aging
One of the primary causes of heart valve disease is aging. With age, the heart’s valves can become stiffer or thicker, making them less efficient.
This can restrict blood flow, leading to a range of symptoms such as fatigue and shortness of breath.
Congenital Conditions
Congenital heart valve disease is an illness that develops in utero and lasts throughout the patient’s life.
Congenital heart valve disease can cause a range of symptoms, from murmurs to breathing difficulties, as well as making the patient more prone to infections and other illnesses.
Unfortunately, there is often no way to prevent congenital conditions. They can only be managed through the appropriate treatment (such as medication).
Infections
Bacterial endocarditis is an infection that occurs in the inner lining of the heart valves and chambers. It can lead to fever, fatigue, and chest pain.
If it is left untreated, it can result in serious complications such as stroke, heart failure, or even death.
Heart Attack
This occurs when the blood supply to part of your heart is blocked. This can cause scarring in the tissue, which affects valve function and leads to other problems such as arrhythmias.
You can reduce your risk of having a heart attack by avoiding foods that are high in salt and saturated fat. You should also focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle that incorporates plenty of regular exercise.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a major cause of heart valve damage. It can cause the walls of the arteries to become thick and stiff, resulting in an increased risk of stroke and other serious illnesses.
High blood pressure can often be managed by changing your diet or by taking medication. Your primary care provider will be able to point you in the right direction.
What Are the Symptoms of Heart Valve Issues?
Common symptoms of heart valve problems include fatigue, palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, and lightheadedness. You might also feel pressure inside your chest.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible in order to prevent further complications or even death.
You can check out this resource to learn more: heartfailurematters.org
Avoiding Heart Valve Problems Is Easier Than It Seems
Sometimes, avoiding heart valve problems can seem overwhelming. The above guidelines will help ensure that you avoid problems you may have otherwise dealt with.
Looking for other useful info that can help you out in the future? Be sure to check out the rest of our blog!
