What the Mitral/Tricuspid valve does
The mitral and tricuspid valves are located between the upper and lower chambers of the heart. They control blood flow as it moves between the chambers of the heart.
Types of Mitral/Tricuspid valve disease
Valve regurgitation. The cusps (leaflets) of the valve don’t close tightly, causing blood to leak backward into either atrium of the heart. If not treated, it can result in heart muscle damage.
The most common cause of blood leakage is mitral valve prolapse, in which the leaflets bulge back into the left atrium as the heart beats.
Valve stenosis. The cusps of the valve become thick or stiff, and they may fuse together. This results in a narrowed valve opening and reduced blood flow in the heart.
Symptoms of valve regurgitation
Many people with severe valve regurgitation may not have symptoms, yet may still benefit from early mitral or tricuspid valve repair. Signs and symptoms of valve regurgitation can include:
- Blood flowing turbulently through the heart (heart murmur)
- Shortness of breath, especially with exertion or when lying flat
- Fatigue, especially during times of increased activity
- Heart palpitations — sensations of a rapid, fluttering heartbeat
- Swollen feet or ankles