Valve Regurgitation: An Overview

Valve regurgitation is a condition where one or more of the heart valves do not close properly, allowing blood to flow backwards instead of moving forward through the heart and into the rest of the body.

This can place extra stress on the heart and may lead to serious cardiovascular complications if left untreated. This page explores the key aspects of valve regurgitation, including its definition, types, severity, symptoms, causes, and available treatments. Additionally, we will discuss the vital role of heart scans in diagnosing valve regurgitation and emphasise the importance of seeking care from a professional cardiac clinic.

What is Valve Regurgitation?

Valve regurgitation, also known as valvular insufficiency or incompetence, occurs when a heart valve fails to close completely, allowing blood to leak back through the valve. The heart consists of four valves – the aortic, mitral, pulmonary, and tricuspid valves – which are responsible for maintaining the correct direction of blood flow.

When one of these valves becomes regurgitant, it disrupts the normal flow of blood, leading to a decrease in the efficiency of the heart’s pumping action. This condition can vary in severity, and over time, it may contribute to heart enlargement, heart failure, or other serious complications.

How Serious Is It? & Are There Different Types?

The seriousness of valve regurgitation can vary significantly based on the valve affected and the degree of leakage. Valve regurgitation is classified into different types depending on the specific valve involved:

1. Mitral Regurgitation: This occurs when the mitral valve, located between the left atrium and left ventricle, does not close properly, causing blood to flow backwards into the left atrium. It is the most common type of valve regurgitation and can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue.
2. Aortic Regurgitation: This happens when the aortic valve, which controls blood flow from the left ventricle into the aorta, fails to close tightly, allowing blood to leak back into the left ventricle. Aortic regurgitation can result in symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath, particularly during physical activity.
3. Tricuspid Regurgitation: In this type, the tricuspid valve, located between the right atrium and right ventricle, does not close properly, causing blood to flow back into the right atrium. Tricuspid regurgitation often accompanies other valve issues or heart conditions.
4. Pulmonary Regurgitation: This occurs when the pulmonary valve, which regulates blood flow from the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery, does not close completely. Pulmonary regurgitation is less common and usually results from conditions such as pulmonary hypertension or congenital heart defects.

Symptoms

The symptoms of valve regurgitation depend on the severity of the condition and the valve affected. Some people with mild regurgitation may not experience symptoms, while others with more severe cases may exhibit the following:

• Shortness of breath: Often worse during physical activity or when lying down.
• Fatigue: A feeling of extreme tiredness, especially during exertion.
• Heart palpitations: Sensations of a racing, fluttering, or irregular heartbeat.
• Swelling: Particularly in the legs, ankles, and feet, due to fluid buildup.
• Chest pain: A tight, squeezing pain, especially with aortic regurgitation.
• Lightheadedness or fainting: Caused by inadequate blood flow to the brain.

Causes

Valve regurgitation can result from a variety of underlying conditions or factors:

• Congenital heart defects: Some people are born with valve abnormalities that lead to regurgitation.
• Rheumatic fever: An inflammatory disease that can develop after untreated strep throat, leading to valve damage.
• Endocarditis: An infection of the inner lining of the heart, which can damage the heart valves.
• Heart valve prolapse: A condition where the valve flaps bulge back into the heart chamber, leading to incomplete closure.
• Heart attack: Can damage the heart muscle and affect the function of the valves.
• Hypertension: Chronic high blood pressure can lead to valve damage over time.
• Ageing: Degenerative changes in the valve structure as a person ages can lead to regurgitation.

Available Treatments

Treatment for valve regurgitation depends on the severity of the condition and its underlying cause. Options include:

• Medications: Although medications cannot cure valve regurgitation, they can help manage symptoms and prevent complications. These may include diuretics to reduce fluid buildup, vasodilators to lower blood pressure, and beta-blockers to regulate heart rate.
• Valve Repair: In some cases, valves can be surgically repaired to improve their function. This may involve reshaping the valve, removing excess tissue, or repairing valve flaps.
• Valve Replacement: In more severe cases, the damaged valve may need to be replaced with a mechanical or biological valve through surgery.
• Transcatheter Procedures: For patients who are not candidates for traditional surgery, minimally invasive procedures like Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) may be an option.

The Role of Heart Scans in Identifying The Issue

Heart scans are crucial for diagnosing valve regurgitation and assessing its severity. These imaging tests allow cardiologists to visualise the heart valves, measure the degree of regurgitation, and evaluate the heart’s overall function. Common heart scans used include:

• Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart that provides detailed images of the heart valves in motion, helping to identify the extent of regurgitation.
• Cardiac MRI: Offers a more comprehensive view of the heart’s structure and function, including precise measurements of blood flow and valve function.
• CT Scans: These can be used to visualise the heart valves and detect structural abnormalities that may contribute to regurgitation.
• Cardiac Catheterisation: This procedure involves inserting a catheter into the heart’s blood vessels to measure pressures within the heart chambers and evaluate the severity of valve regurgitation.

The Importance of Trusting a Professional Cardiac Clinic

Given the complexity and potential severity of valve regurgitation, it is essential to seek care from a professional cardiac clinic with experienced cardiologists and access to advanced diagnostic tools. A specialised cardiac clinic can provide accurate diagnoses, develop personalised treatment plans, and offer ongoing care to manage the condition effectively.

Trusting a professional cardiac clinic ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care, which is critical for preventing complications, improving symptoms, and enhancing long-term outcomes.

In summary, valve regurgitation is a serious heart condition that requires careful monitoring and appropriate treatment. Understanding its symptoms, causes, and treatment options, along with the importance of professional care, is essential for managing the condition effectively and maintaining a better quality of life.