The heart valve disease is a condition where the prevention lies on a complete discussion about the diverse topics concerning the etiology of the disease, the functions of the heart valves, causes, symptoms, diagnosis and even the treatments for this condition. It is a necessity for the public to become aware of this disease because early detection and prompt treatment will avert further consequences to take place that can result to an untimely death of a person.
The heart has certain structures that make it function properly. Within its three layers outer structures lay several parts. The upper and lower chambers which are commonly known as the atria and ventricles and the lateral classification of the heart, the right and left portions are not just the only structures that comprise the heart. Between these chambers, valves exist.
Valves are also seen prior to the pulmonary vein and subsequent to the pulmonary artery before reaching the left atrium. The mitral valve can be found between the left atrium and ventricle; it has two leaflets that actually flail as the valves open and close while the tricuspid valve is found between the right atrium and ventricle and has three leaflets, the basis for its name.
The purpose of these heart valves is to provide a one way stream of blood inside the heart. The one way stream of the blood is very important to maintain the normal function of the heart. The valves provide the blood a passage way before leaving each chamber as it opens. Inversely, it prevents the blood to flow backwards by closing its flaps subsequent to the flow of blood on it. The relaxation and contraction of the heart tissue triggers the open and close mechanism of the valves permitting the blood to flow within it.
When the heart valves’ functions diminish due to bacteria or other conditions, the functions of the heart will also be disrupted. The malfunctions are classified on two classifications, the regurgitation and stenosis. Regurgitation is the flow of blood with a backward direction and stenosis is the narrowing of the heart valves.
As the Heart Valve Disease occurs, many manifestations can take place. The actual condition of the disease doesn’t necessarily reflect on the manifestations. It can occur abruptly that depends on the duration of the development of the disease. The progression may vary from one person to another. Some patients may have a loner or shorter disease process. The symptoms may mimic other conditions such as heart failure.
It is easier to prevent than to cure especially because the treatment for this condition has an expensive multifaceted approach that entails medications and surgical procedures to improve the patient’s situation. Prevention of Heart Valve Disease incidence is the immediate treatment of sore throat by using potent antibiotics. This intervention is performed to avert the occurrence of rheumatic fever that eventually can lead to valvular heart diseases. Maintaining a healthy heart diet will also prevent the prevalence of this disease because it will offer the patient a healthy food preference. Early recognition of symptoms is a very good secondary preventive measure to avoid further complications.
For more information about Disease, Symptoms and Diagnosis, please visit: Valvular Heart Disease and Heart Valve Disease.