Going into detail on what this term means and how it relates to health guidelines. This article may be incomplete.
Mitral Stenosis is a type of heart valve disorder that specifically affects the mitral valve, the valve located between the left atrium and the left ventricle of the heart. In mitral stenosis, the mitral valve becomes narrowed or stiff, leading to restricted blood flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle. This narrowing can result in increased pressure in the left atrium, which may eventually lead to backup of blood into the lungs and cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain.
The main cause of mitral stenosis is often rheumatic fever, a complication of untreated streptococcal infections, which can result in scarring and thickening of the mitral valve leaflets. Other less common causes include congenital heart defects affecting the mitral valve or other conditions that lead to valve calcification or damage. Mitral stenosis can progressively worsen over time, and severe cases may require interventions such as medication management, balloon valvuloplasty, or in severe cases, surgical repair or replacement of the mitral valve to improve symptoms and prevent complications like heart failure or arrhythmias.
Diagnosis of mitral stenosis usually involves echocardiography, which allows visualization of the mitral valve structure and function, as well as assessment of the degree of stenosis. Treatment strategies aim to alleviate symptoms, improve heart function, and prevent long-term complications. Patients with mitral may benefit from lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and adherence to prescribed medications. Close follow-up with healthcare providers is crucial in the long-term care of individuals with mitral stenosis to optimize their quality of life and overall cardiovascular health.