-
Epic Heart &
Vascular Care
- Primary Care Mulitspeciality Practice
- Epic Heart & Vascular Care
- Primary Care Mulitspeciality Practice
Valvular heart disease (VHD) happens when one or more of the heart’s four valves doesn’t open or close properly.
This can make the heart work harder and lead to other heart problems over time.
If its valves don’t work right, the heart must pump harder to keep blood moving. Over time, this extra effort can weaken the heart, leading to congestive heart failure (CHF)—a condition where the heart can’t pump blood effectively.
This link is well-known in cardiology. Treating valve problems early can help prevent heart failure from developing.
CHF is when the heart can’t pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. It can cause:
Congestive Heart Failure is often caused by Valvular Heart Disease, high blood pressure, or blocked arteries.
An echo shows:
These clues help doctors decide on medication, surgery, or other treatments.
Treatment options:
Studies show that treating valve disease in time can improve quality of life and reduce hospital visits.
How often you need an echo depends on how severe the valve issue is:
Mild: every 3–5 years
Moderate: every 1–2 years
Severe (but no symptoms): every 6–12 months
If you start experiencing symptoms, more frequent testing may be needed.
You may need treatment if you have:
These signs show the heart is struggling and action may be needed to prevent damage.
Yes. An echo can find valve issues even before symptoms appear. Catching problems early lets your doctor:
Valvular Heart Disease and Congestive Heart Failure are closely linked, and tests such as echocardiograms are essential for diagnosis and treatment planning. If you’ve been told you have a heart murmur, valve issue, or symptoms like shortness of breath or fatigue, talk to your doctor about getting an echo. Catching problems early can protect your heart and improve your life.
Our clinic provides comprehensive cardiac care, from acute treatment to ongoing follow-up, for patients throughout the greater Hudson Valley. Schedule an appointment with our team through our convenient online scheduling form or by calling 877-EPIC-DOC (877-3742-362).
Remember: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your cardiologist or healthcare provider for personalized diagnosis, treatment, and management strategies for heart failure.
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