Many patients with valvular heart disease experience fatigue, shortness of breath, or swelling without knowing the cause. Valve problems can limit your heart’s ability to work efficiently, often without obvious warning signs early on.
Our team of highly skilled cardiologists at Cardiac and Vascular Consultants is led by Dr. Shrikanth Upadya. We’re dedicated to providing clear answers and personalized care for patients facing valve-related heart issues. Our practice serves the communities of The Villages, Lecanto, Leesburg, Wildwood, Summerfield, and Lady Lake, Florida.
What Is Valvular Heart Disease?
Valvular heart disease is a condition where one or more of the heart’s valves do not function properly, disrupting the normal flow of blood through your heart and to your body.
The heart has four critical valves: mitral, tricuspid, pulmonary, and aortic. These ensure blood flows in the correct direction. When these valves fail to open or close as they should, it can lead to significant health issues.
Symptoms of Valvular Heart Disease
Valvular heart disease can be asymptomatic for many years. However, when symptoms do occur, they may include:
- An abnormal heart murmur detectable by a stethoscope
- Chest pain and abdominal swelling, particularly with advanced tricuspid regurgitation
- Fatigue and shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or when lying down
- Swelling in the ankles and feet
- Dizziness, fainting, and irregular heartbeat
Causes and Types of Heart Valve Problems
Heart valve issues may be congenital or develop later in life due to infections or other heart-related conditions. Common types of valve problems include:
- Regurgitation: Occurs when valve flaps don’t close tightly, causing blood to leak backward. This is often due to prolapse, where valve flaps bulge back.
- Stenosis: Characterized by thickened or stiff valve flaps, sometimes fused, leading to a narrowed opening and restricted blood flow.
- Atresia: A condition where a valve isn’t formed, resulting in a solid sheet of tissue blocking blood flow between heart chambers.
For more detailed information, you can visit resources like the Mayo Clinic.
Why Choose Cardiac and Vascular Consultants?
At Cardiac and Vascular Consultants, we focus on practical, expert care for patients with heart valve problems. Led by Dr. Shrikanth Upadya, a board-certified cardiologist and Castle Connolly Top Doctor, our team brings experience in both routine and complex valve treatments.
We use modern, minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, helping you recover sooner with less discomfort. From diagnosis to treatment, we’re here to help you manage your heart health with confidence at our offices across Central Florida.
Schedule Expert Valve Care Today
Valvular heart problems need careful management to protect your long-term heart health. Our team is ready to help you understand your condition and treatment options. Call our main office at 352-513-3482 or our Lecanto office at 352-633-1966 today.
