Valvular Heart Disease Specialist
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Good Heart Medical Group, Inc.
Board Certified Cardiologist & Interventional Cardiology located in Santa Ana, CA & Garden Grove, CA
Damage or disease to any of the valves in your heart can lead to problems like chest pain, arrhythmia, or even heart failure. At Good Heart Medical Group, Inc., Amer Zarka, MD, and his team provide advanced diagnostics and evidence-based treatments for people suffering from valvular heart disease. If you experience symptoms, book an appointment at one of the offices in Santa Ana or Garden Grove, California, by phone or online today.
Valvular Heart Disease Q & A
What is valvular heart disease?
Valvular heart disease refers to disease or damage to any of the valves in your heart.
Your valves regulate blood flow both to and from the heart; they have flaps that open and shut to control blood flow. Valvular heart disease causes dysfunction with these flaps, resulting in reduced blood flow or blood leaking back into the heart.
Valvular heart disease prevents your heart from functioning properly and forces it to work harder to pump blood throughout your body, leading to serious complications like arrhythmias, strokes, heart failure, and death.
What are the symptoms of valvular heart disease?
Symptoms include:
- Chest pain
- Abdominal swelling
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Swollen ankles or feet
- Dizziness
- Irregular heartbeat
- Fainting
Many people with valvular heart disease also experience heart murmurs. Primary doctors often identify heart murmurs during routine exams. Valvular heart disease can also persist for years without any signs or symptoms.
What causes valvular heart disease?
In some cases, valvular heart disease is present at birth. The condition can also develop in adults as a result of underlying conditions like:
- High blood pressure
- Previous heart attack
- Infections
- Autoimmune diseases
- High cholesterol
If you notice signs of valvular heart disease, book an appointment at Good Heart Medical Group, Inc. The specialists can determine the cause of your symptoms as well as the most effective treatment.
How is valvular heart disease diagnosed?
In addition to a physical exam, your cardiologist may conduct several tests, including:
- Echocardiogram
- Electrocardiogram
- Chest X-ray
- Stress test
Your doctor uses your results to determine the severity of your valvular heart disease. After your diagnosis, your doctor works with you to develop your treatment plan.
What treatments are available?
Your doctor may recommend medication and lifestyle changes, along with regular follow-up appointments to monitor your condition. Your doctor may eventually recommend surgery to repair or replace the affected valve.
Your surgeon can perform heart valve surgery using minimally invasive techniques, which reduces recovery time and the risk of complications. Good Heart Medical Group, Inc., has extensive experience performing many different heart procedures.
To speak with a cardiologist about your heart health, call or book your appointment online today.
