Heart Valve Disease

Heart Valve Disease Treatment at Garnet Health

The American Heart Association estimates that 5 million Americans are diagnosed with heart valve disease every year. If you’re among this number, you can find the advanced and comprehensive cardiovascular services you need at Garnet Health. Our heart center is home to experienced, Board-Certified cardiologists with training from the nation’s foremost academic institutions.

Patients at Garnet Health have access to multidisciplinary heart valve disease treatment from an expert, experienced, trusted team of specialists. From diagnostics to cardiovascular surgery and cardiac rehabilitation, we offer leading-edge care and compassionate support to help patients achieve optimal outcomes. As our patient, you can be assured that our professionals will walk you through every step of the treatment process and provide the guidance you need to make confident, informed decisions about your heart health. 

Heart Valve Disease Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Symptoms 

It’s possible to have heart valve disease and not experience any symptoms for several years. If symptoms do develop, they may include: 

• Shortness of breath 
• Dizziness 
• Weakness 
• Chest pain 
• Swelling in the abdomen, feet or ankles
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat 
• Heart murmur 
• Fatigue

It’s important to seek immediate medical attention if you experience cardiovascular-related symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or chest pains.

Causes

Heart valve disease occurs when one or more of the heart’s four valves do not work correctly. Valves are responsible for keeping blood flowing in the right direction. There are multiple types of heart valve disease, each with different possible causes. Some cases of heart valve disease are congenital — meaning present at birth — while others can develop as a result of infections, cardiovascular conditions and other factors.

Treatment

Surgery to repair or replace damaged heart valves is often recommended to treat heart valve disease. Surgery also may be performed to help prevent possible complications of heart valve disease, including heart failure, stroke and blood clots. In less severe cases, taking medication to address symptoms, losing excess weight and following a heart-healthy diet may be sufficient treatment.

Each patient’s optimal heart valve disease treatment plan will vary. Your doctor will discuss your options in detail and answer any questions you may have. 

Garnet Health offers heart valve disease treatment and other cardiovascular services to patients in Orange County, Sullivan County and nearby communities.