Mitral Valve Stenosis

Mitral valve stenosis is a heart valve condition in which the mitral valve becomes narrowed, restricting blood flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle. This narrowing forces the heart to work harder to move blood forward, leading to increased pressure in the lungs and reduced blood flow to the body.

Mitral valve stenosis most often develops gradually and may not cause symptoms for many years. It is commonly linked to damage from rheumatic fever, although other causes can also contribute.

Symptoms

Symptoms usually appear as the valve narrowing becomes more severe or when the heart is under stress, such as during physical activity or pregnancy.

Common symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath, especially during exertion or when lying flat

• Fatigue or reduced ability to exercise

• Swelling of the feet or ankles

• Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat

• Chest discomfort

• Dizziness or fainting in severe cases

• Cough, sometimes with blood-tinged sputum

Symptoms may worsen over time if the condition is not treated.

Causes

Mitral valve stenosis occurs when the mitral valve leaflets thicken, stiffen, or fuse together, limiting their ability to open fully.

Common causes include:

• Rheumatic fever following untreated streptococcal throat infection

• Congenital abnormalities of the mitral valve

• Calcium buildup on the valve with aging

• Previous radiation therapy to the chest

• Rare inflammatory or autoimmune conditions

Rheumatic fever remains the most common cause worldwide.

Risk Factors

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing mitral valve stenosis.

Key risk factors include:

• History of rheumatic fever

• Recurrent or untreated throat infections in childhood

• Advancing age

• Congenital heart valve defects

• Previous chest radiation therapy

• Living in regions where rheumatic fever is more common

Both men and women can be affected.

Complications

Untreated mitral valve stenosis can lead to serious complications due to prolonged strain on the heart and lungs.

Possible complications include:

• Atrial fibrillation and other heart rhythm disorders

• Blood clots and increased risk of stroke

• Pulmonary hypertension

• Heart failure

• Fluid buildup in the lungs

• Reduced quality of life due to chronic symptoms

Early detection and management can help prevent or delay these complications.

Prevention

Not all cases of mitral valve stenosis can be prevented, but certain measures can reduce risk, especially when related to rheumatic fever.

Preventive strategies include:

• Prompt treatment of streptococcal throat infections

• Regular medical follow-up for known heart valve conditions

• Managing heart rhythm disorders and blood pressure

• Maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle

• Avoiding smoking

• Seeking early medical care for new or worsening symptoms

Timely medical care and preventive treatment play an important role in preserving heart valve function and overall cardiovascular health.