The mitral and tricuspid valves help control blood flow between the upper and lower chambers of the heart. These valves may leak, called regurgitation, or become narrowed, called stenosis. Valve dysfunction can increase pressure in the heart and lungs and may contribute to shortness of breath, swelling, arrhythmias, or heart failure.
Causes include degenerative valve changes, rheumatic heart disease, endocarditis, cardiomyopathy, prior heart attack, pulmonary hypertension, congenital valve abnormalities, or chamber enlargement.
Symptoms patients may notice
- Shortness of breath with activity or lying flat
- Leg, ankle, abdominal, or neck-vein swelling
- Fatigue, weakness, or reduced exercise tolerance
- Palpitations, AFib, or irregular heartbeat
- Heart murmur or abnormal echocardiogram
How we evaluate this condition
- Echocardiogram to assess valve leakage, narrowing, chamber size, and heart function
- EKG and rhythm monitoring when palpitations or AFib are suspected
- Stress testing or advanced imaging when symptoms and echo findings need clarification
- Referral coordination for advanced valve procedures when disease is severe
Treatment and care options
- Medication management for fluid retention, blood pressure, rhythm, or heart failure symptoms
- Anticoagulation decisions when AFib or other clot risk is present
- Valve repair, replacement, or catheter-based treatment referral when appropriate
- Ongoing surveillance with repeat echocardiography
When to seek urgent care
Call 911 for chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, stroke symptoms, or sudden worsening swelling with breathing difficulty.