Valvular Heart Disease

2 April 2025

The heart’s valves play a crucial role in ensuring blood flows properly through the heart and to the rest of the body. Valvular heart disease occurs when one or more of these valves become damaged or dysfunctional, affecting circulation and potentially leading to serious complications if left untreated.

At The New Foscote Hospital, our expert cardiology team offers advanced diagnostic tests and personalised treatment plans to manage and treat valvular disease effectively, improving your heart health and overall well-being.

What is Valvular Heart Disease?

The heart has four valves (aortic, mitral, tricuspid, and pulmonary), which open and close to regulate blood flow. When these valves don’t function properly, it can lead to:

Stenosis – Narrowing of the valve, restricting blood flow
Regurgitation (Insufficiency) – When a valve doesn’t close properly, allowing blood to leak backward
Prolapse – When a valve’s leaflets become floppy and don’t close tightly

Depending on the severity, valvular disease can cause mild symptoms or lead to heart failure if left untreated.

Common Causes of Valvular Heart Disease

Valvular heart disease can develop due to various factors, including:

Congenital heart defects – Present from birth
Age-related degeneration – Natural wear and tear over time
Rheumatic fever – A past infection that damages heart valves
Endocarditis – A bacterial infection affecting the heart valves
High blood pressure or heart disease – Can increase strain on the valves

Early detection is key to preventing complications and preserving heart function.

Symptoms of Valvular Heart Disease

Some people may not experience symptoms until the condition progresses. Common signs include:

Shortness of breath – Especially during physical activity
Fatigue or weakness – Feeling unusually tired or lightheaded
Chest pain or discomfort – Particularly with exertion
Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) – Feeling palpitations or a racing heart
Swollen ankles or legs – Due to fluid retention
Dizziness or fainting – Caused by inadequate blood flow

If you have any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly.

Diagnosing Valvular Heart Disease

At The New Foscote Hospital, we offer comprehensive heart assessments to diagnose valvular disease accurately. Our advanced diagnostic tests include:

Echocardiogram (Heart Ultrasound) – A key test to evaluate valve structure and function
Electrocardiogram (ECG) – Records heart rhythm and detects abnormalities
Cardiac MRI & CT Scans – Provides detailed imaging of the heart valves
Chest X-Ray – Checks for signs of heart enlargement or fluid buildup
Stress Testing – Assesses how well the heart functions during exercise

These tests help determine the severity of the condition and the best treatment approach.

Arranging To Visit A Private GP

IfIf you have symptoms of valvular heart disease, our private GP service offers fast access to expert cardiology assessments.

Same-day & next-day appointments available
No need to be registered with the hospital
30-minute private GP consultation: £100
Insurance billing available
Referrals for specialist cardiology assessments & treatments

Taking proactive steps can protect your heart health and prevent serious complications.

Our Resident Private GP’s

Our Private GP’s welcoming and highly experienced. They offer patients sound diagnosis and treatment, along with individual care focused on their future health.