Mitral Valve Stenosis: Understanding the Most Common Causes
Rheumatic Heart Disease: The Primary Cause of Mitral Stenosis
The most frequent cause of mitral valve stenosis is rheumatic heart disease, which often stems from a bacterial infection. This condition can initially present with symptoms such as fever, palpitations, and joint pain affecting multiple joints. Over time, it commonly affects the heart valves, with the mitral valve being the most vulnerable. In some cases, the aortic and even the tricuspid valves may also be impacted.
Progression of Valve Damage
As the disease progresses, the affected valves may thicken and become scarred, leading to fusion or sticking together of the valve leaflets. This process can narrow the valve opening, restricting blood flow and potentially causing regurgitation as well. With continued deterioration, the valve opening becomes increasingly smaller, forcing the heart to work harder to pump blood through the narrowed passage.
Symptoms and Complications of Mitral Stenosis
Common symptoms associated with advanced mitral stenosis include shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or when lying flat, and chest tightness. As the condition worsens, patients may experience signs of heart failure, such as fatigue, swelling in the legs and feet, and irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias). If left untreated, severe mitral stenosis can lead to life-threatening complications like pulmonary hypertension and heart failure.
Other Contributing Conditions
While rheumatic heart disease is the leading cause, other conditions can also contribute to the development of mitral valve stenosis. These include:
- Calcification of the mitral annulus due to degenerative heart changes
- Infective endocarditis, which can damage the valve structure
- Dilated cardiomyopathy, where an enlarged heart can indirectly affect valve function
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing mitral valve stenosis and preventing serious complications. Regular cardiac evaluations can help detect valve issues before they progress to more advanced stages.