Mitral Valve Stenosis

What Is Mitral Valve Stenosis? 

Your mitral valve acts like a door that controls how blood moves between different parts of your heart. Mitral valve stenosis narrows this valve, making it hard for blood to flow properly through the heart.

You may experience mitral valve stenosis as the result of:

  • Calcium deposits around the valve
  • Certain medications
  • Drug use
  • Radiation treatment in the chest
  • Rheumatic fever (linked to untreated strep throat or scarlet fever)

If left untreated, mitral valve stenosis can lead to serious heart problems. It can also cause blood clots that lead to strokes, high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats and even heart failure.

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What Is Mitral Valve Regurgitation? 

Mitral valve regurgitation is a condition related to mitral valve stenosis. With mitral valve regurgitation, the mitral valve doesn't close all the way. This can make blood leak backward into the heart, which can cause breathing problems and heart failure.

Mitral valve regurgitation mostly happens as people age. It is also caused by rheumatic fever, clogged arteries or heart lining inflammation. 

Mitral Valve Stenosis Treatments

At Emory Heart & Vascular, we offer medication management and surgical or percutaneous treatments for mitral valve stenosis.

Symptoms of Mitral Valve Stenosis 

Symptoms of mitral valve stenosis can develop slowly over time. Early treatment is key so talking to your doctor about your symptoms is important.

Your symptoms for mitral valve stenosis may include:

  • Chest pain that gets worse with activity
  • Coughing
  • Fast or strong heartbeats
  • Fatigue (exhaustion)
  • Swelling in the feet or ankles
  • Trouble breathing
  • Trouble catching your breath
At Emory Heart & Vascular, we will provide you with the knowledge and care you need to make informed decisions and take control of your heart health.

Diagnosing Mitral Valve Stenosis 

Your doctor may order a test to determine if you have mitral valve stenosis. These tests include:

  • A physical exam.
  • A stress test.
  • Imaging tests, such as an echocardiogram, chest X-ray, transesophageal echocardiogram or cardiac catheterization.
  • Tests for heart rhythm irregularities, like an electrocardiogram or Holter monitoring.

At Emory Healthcare, we have a multidisciplinary cardiovascular team. We will partner with you to develop an individualized care plan that addresses your lifestyle and healthcare needs. 

Preventing Mitral Valve Stenosis 

The best way to prevent mitral valve stenosis is to prevent rheumatic fever. See a doctor if you or your children have sore throats. Strep throat can lead to rheumatic fever if not treated with antibiotics.

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