Valve Disease

Heart valve disease can occur in any of the four heart valves. Aortic and mitral valves are most commonly affected. The valves can have stenosis (narrowing). Stenosis is caused by a build-up of calcium deposits on the valve causing it to open and close incorrectly.

Valves can also become leaky (regurgitation). With a leaky valve, blood seeps backwards through the valve after the heart pumps blood forward. Heart valve repair may help relieve some of the common symptoms you may have such as:

• Shortness of breath
• Lightheadedness
• Angina, chest pain, pressure or tightness
• Fatigue
• Swelling in feet, legs or abdomen
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat

Heart Stories