What are Some Signs To Tell When The Aortic Valve of The Heart is Not Functioning Well?

 

Heart valve issues are related to many different conditions that obstruct the functioning of one or more of the valves in the heart and hinders proper circulation. If not treated in time, heart valve dysfunction can impact the quality of life and be fatal. Identifying a malfunctioning heart valve can help in treatment and restoration of their normal function and healthy life.

The function of heart valves

There are four valves in the heart - mitral, tricuspid, aortic and pulmonic. They ensure the blood flow in only one direction uniformly through your heart. The valves are made of flaps of tissue that open so that the blood can move forward through the heart during the first half of the heartbeat. During the other half of the heartbeat, they close to prevent blood from flowing back. These tissue flaps are called leaflets. In the mitral and tricuspid valves, there are fibrous strands of tissue that connect them to the papillary muscles inside the walls of the ventricles. They keep the leaflets sturdy against any wrong flow of blood.

 

Heart valve disease

Heart valve disease happens when the valves of your heart do not function correctly. Some birth defects, Rheumatic fever, over time degeneration, and infections can cause heart valve disease. 

 

Symptoms of heart valve disease

When the heart valves begin to function improperly, the heart needs to work harder to compensate for the decreased blood flow. With passing time, the valves malfunctioning progress and symptoms begin to show. Some of the signs are mentioned below:

• Discomfort in the chest

• Palpitations 

• Shortness of breath

• Swelling of the ankles, feet or abdomen (Edema)

• Dizziness

• Weakness 

• Unexplained weight gain

 

How is valve disease diagnosed?

Regular physical examinations are essential to find out about fluid in the lungs, enlargement of the heart, and heart murmur. Heart valve issues can be diagnosed by several medical tests that are included in the full body health checkups:

• Echocardiogram: it is the ultrasound of the heart where a moving image of the valves and chambers are displayed using sound waves 

• Angiogram: it is the x-ray of the coronary arteries, heart’s chambers and valves done by dye injected into a catheter in your limbs

• Electrocardiogram: the electrical activity of the heart is recorded in graphs using small electrode patches 

Depending on your current health and any existing health conditions, your physician might suggest some more tests like stress echocardiogram, MRI. Your doctor can monitor the progress of your valve issues and help you in making decisions about prevention or treatment plans. Check your heart valves now with a heart health checkup.

Top 5 Benefits Of Eating Healthy, Well Balanced, Nutritious Diet

A healthy diet is one that can provide you with nutrients. A balanced food plate includes proteins, whole grains, good fat,  fruits and vegetables. It also involves not consuming tobacco in any form, and reducing alcohol intake. A healthy diet makes your bones stronger, prevents chronic illnesses, and boosts immunity.

Read this article to understand the importance of a healthy diet, and how it affects your body.

Helps you in managing your body weight

Obesity or being overweight can result in chronic health issues like heart disease, diabetes, bone issues, and cancers. Maintaining a moderate BMI can help in reducing the likelihood of these diseases. Having plenty of dietary fiber, vegetables  and fruits instead of processed foods can help you manage your weight.

Improves your heart health

Conditions like high blood pressure can lead to heart attack, and stroke. However, you can prevent premature heart diseases with simple lifestyle modifications like eating healthy, being physically active and by doing preventive health checkup . Consume plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains,  low fat dairy products, fish, and nuts. Apart from that, restrict  your sugar and sodium intake and increase the consumption of potassium, magnesium and calcium.

Reduces your risk of cancer

Antioxidants protect cells from damage thus they help to lower the risk of developing cancer. Phytochemicals in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes are good sources of antioxidants. Eat berries, dark leafy greens, nuts and seeds for your antioxidant needs.

Helps you to manage diabetes / prevent its onset

Eating a healthy diet can help you in - managing and preventing or delaying diabetes, depending on your condition. Consuming healthy foods can help you in controlling your blood glucose levels, cholesterol, and blood pressure.

Strengthens your teeth and bones

Consume a diet rich in calcium and magnesium to keep your bones and teeth strong. Keeping your bones in good health lowers the risk of bone issues in your advanced ages. Low fat dairy products, broccoli, legumes, and cabbage are good sources of calcium; and green  leafy vegetables, seeds, nuts, and whole grains are high in magnesium.

Take small steps at a time to improve your dietary habits - follow these tips:

• Drink water or herbal tea instead of soft or fizzy drinks

• Ensuring you eat fresh meals

• Eat whole fruits instead of juices

• Avoid processed foods

• Lower the intake of salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats

• Know your health status with regular full body checkups to understand what foods you should avoid or consume more.