
Early Symptoms of Heart Valve Problems: What to Watch For
Introduction Heart valves are important structures that keep blood flowing in the right direction through the heart. When they don’t work properly, it can lead to a variety of problems, including heart valve disease. Early symptoms of heart valve problems may be subtle and easy to miss. However, it’s important to be aware of them so that you can get treatment early on, before the problem gets worse. Symptoms of Heart Valve Problems Some of the early symptoms of heart valve problems include: Shortness of breath, especially with exertion Fatigue Chest pain Palpitations (irregular heartbeat) Swelling in the ankles or legs Dizziness or lightheadedness If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment of heart valve problems can help prevent serious complications, such as heart failure. Things that can Cause Heart Valve Problems There are a number of things that