Structural Heart Disease

TREATMENTS

What is Structural Heart Disease?

Structural heart disease refers to a range of conditions that affect the physical structure of the heart. These abnormalities can involve the heart’s chambers, valves, or muscles. Unlike functional heart problems like heart failure, structural heart diseases primarily relate to the physical makeup of the heart.

How Does Structural Heart Disease Happen?

Structural heart diseases can be present from birth (congenital) or develop later in life. Several factors can contribute to their development, including:

Congenital heart defects: These are present at birth and can involve various heart structures.
Acquired heart diseases: These develop later in life due to factors like infections, high blood pressure, or coronary artery disease.
Degenerative changes: The heart, like other organs, can wear down over time, leading to structural issues.

Types of Structural Heart Disease

Structural heart disease encompasses a wide range of conditions, including:

Heart valve diseases: Problems with the heart’s valves, such as aortic stenosis, mitral regurgitation, or mitral valve prolapse.
Congenital heart defects: Structural abnormalities present at birth, such as atrial septal defect (ASD), ventricular septal defect (VSD), or patent ductus arteriosus (PDA).
Cardiomyopathies: Diseases of the heart muscle, affecting its ability to pump blood effectively.
Aortic aneurysms: A bulge in the aorta, the main artery carrying blood from the heart.

Symptoms of Structural Heart Disease

Symptoms of structural heart disease can vary widely depending on the specific condition and its severity. Some common symptoms include:

Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Fatigue
Palpitations
Swelling in the legs and ankles
Dizziness or fainting

It’s important to note that many people with structural heart disease may not experience symptoms in the early stages.Regular check-ups and preventive care are crucial for early detection.

Prevention of Structural Heart Disease

While some structural heart diseases are congenital, adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle can help prevent or manage acquired conditions. This includes:

Regular exercise
Maintaining a healthy weight
Eating a balanced diet
Managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels
Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider

Treatment Options

Treatment for structural heart disease depends on the specific condition, its severity, and the patient’s overall health.Options may include:

Medications to manage symptoms and improve heart function
Lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise
Catheter-based procedures to repair or replace valves
Surgery to correct structural abnormalities

It’s crucial to consult with a cardiologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Om Heart Care is a top-tier cardiac clinic committed to offering heart patients quality and compassionate care. Our clinic was established by renowned interventional cardiologist Dr. Priya Palimkar, who has over twenty years of experience. We are dedicated to providing modern treatments and individualized care.

TREATMENTS