Don’t ignore that flutter: Irregular heartbeats could be a sign of Mitral valve disease – Times of India

Mitral valve disease, a condition affecting the heart’s left chambers, can lead to serious complications if untreated. The disease occurs when the mitral valve doesn’t close properly, allowing blood to flow backward and hindering the heart’s pumping efficiency. A common symptom is an irregular heartbeat, which can progress in severity. One of the key symptoms of this condition is an irregular heartbeat, which may start mild and worsen over time. Other symptoms include shortness of breath (especially when lying down), palpitations, swollen feet or ankles, fatigue, and dizziness.
Although mitral valve disease can affect people of all ages, it’s more prevalent in older adults due to age-related decline in heart function.
Dr. Naveen Bhamri, Senior Director & HOD, Interventional Cardiology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Shalimar Bagh says, “Yes, an irregular heartbeat can indeed be a warning sign of mitral valve disease. The mitral valve plays a crucial role in regulating blood flow between the left atrium and left ventricle of the heart. When the mitral valve is diseased—due to conditions such as mitral regurgitation (leakage) or mitral stenosis (narrowing)—it can lead to significant structural and functional changes in the heart, particularly in the left atrium.”

Effect of mitral valve disease on heart

According to Dr. Harnish Singh Bhatia, Consultant – Interventional Cardiology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, “Mitral valve disease often causes the left atrium to enlarge or dilate as it works harder to manage the abnormal blood flow. This atrial dilation creates an environment conducive to the development of arrhythmias, particularly atrial fibrillation (AF). Atrial fibrillation is a type of irregular heartbeat that results in an uncoordinated and rapid electrical activity in the atria. This irregular rhythm can be detected through symptoms like palpitations, fatigue, or shortness of breath, or identified during a routine ECG.”

The connection between mitral valve disease and atrial fibrillation is well-established. In fact, an irregular heartbeat may sometimes be the first detectable sign of an underlying mitral valve issue. If left untreated, this can lead to complications such as stroke or heart failure.

Treatment of mitral valve disease

Treatment options range from minimally invasive procedures to open-heart surgery, often followed by postoperative therapies. These procedures may involve repairing or replacing the damaged valve. Treatment generally includes minimally invasive or open-heart procedures, often accompanied by postsurgery therapies. Heart surgery typically involves repairing or replacing the damaged valves through procedures such as annuloplasty or leaflet repair. The recommended treatment is tailored to a person’s specific condition to ensure effective care and recovery. Doctors determine the best course of action based on the individual patient’s condition.
Therefore, if someone experiences an irregular heartbeat, it’s essential to investigate further for potential causes, including mitral valve disease. Early diagnosis and management of mitral valve issues can prevent complications and improve overall heart health. Regular check-ups with a cardiologist are key to addressing these concerns promptly.