Overview

Mitral valve disease refers to a group of conditions that affect the mitral valve, one of the four valves of the heart. The mitral valve controls blood flow between the left atrium and the left ventricle, ensuring blood moves in the correct direction during each heartbeat. When the valve does not function properly, it can disrupt normal blood flow and strain the heart.

Mitral valve disease commonly includes mitral valve regurgitation, where the valve does not close completely, and mitral valve stenosis, where the valve becomes narrowed. The condition can range from mild to severe and may develop gradually or suddenly.

Symptoms

Symptoms of mitral valve disease depend on the type and severity of valve dysfunction. Mild cases may cause no symptoms for many years.

Common symptoms include:

  • Shortness of breath, especially during activity or when lying down

  • Fatigue or reduced exercise tolerance

  • Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat

  • Swelling of the ankles, feet, or legs

  • Chest discomfort

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness

  • Persistent cough, sometimes with pink or blood-tinged mucus

Symptoms often worsen as the condition progresses.

Causes

Mitral valve disease can result from several underlying conditions that damage or alter the structure of the valve.

Common causes include:

  • Degenerative changes related to aging

  • Rheumatic fever following untreated streptococcal infection

  • Mitral valve prolapse

  • Heart attack causing damage to valve-supporting muscles

  • Congenital heart defects

  • Infections of the heart lining or valves

  • Long-standing high blood pressure affecting heart structure

The cause may differ depending on whether regurgitation or stenosis is present.

Risk Factors

Several factors increase the risk of developing mitral valve disease.

Key risk factors include:

  • Advancing age

  • History of rheumatic fever

  • Congenital heart conditions

  • Previous heart attack

  • High blood pressure

  • Certain connective tissue disorders

  • Family history of valve disease

Both men and women can be affected, though some forms are more common in specific age groups.

Complications

If untreated, mitral valve disease can lead to serious complications due to increased strain on the heart.

Possible complications include:

  • Heart failure

  • Atrial fibrillation and other arrhythmias

  • Blood clots and increased risk of stroke

  • Pulmonary hypertension

  • Enlargement of the left atrium or ventricle

  • Reduced quality of life due to chronic symptoms

Early diagnosis and management can help prevent or delay complications.

Prevention

Not all cases of mitral valve disease can be prevented, but certain measures may reduce risk or slow progression.

Preventive strategies include:

  • Treating streptococcal throat infections promptly

  • Managing high blood pressure and other heart conditions

  • Maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle

  • Avoiding smoking

  • Attending regular medical checkups

  • Following prescribed treatments for existing heart conditions

Timely medical care and lifestyle management play an important role in protecting heart valve health and overall cardiovascular function.

Request an appointment

Advertisement

Advertisement