Heart Valve Regurgitation (Leaky Heart Valve)

Overview

Heart valve regurgitation, commonly known as a leaky heart valve, is a condition in which one of the heart valves does not close properly. This allows blood to flow backward instead of moving forward efficiently through the heart.

Depending on the valve affected—mitral, aortic, tricuspid, or pulmonary—this condition can range from mild to severe. Over time, significant regurgitation can strain the heart and lead to complications such as heart enlargement or heart failure.

At Moolchand Hospital, a leading multi super speciality hospital in Delhi, patients receive advanced diagnosis and treatment for heart valve disorders. Recognised as a trusted heart specialist hospital in Delhi and a well-established hospital in Lajpat Nagar Delhi, Moolchand provides comprehensive cardiac care using modern technology.

What is Heart Valve Regurgitation?

The heart has four valves that ensure blood flows in one direction. When a valve becomes weak or damaged, it may not close completely, causing blood to leak backward. This condition is known as regurgitation.

Common types include:

• Mitral valve regurgitation
• Aortic valve regurgitation
• Tricuspid valve regurgitation
• Pulmonary valve regurgitation

Symptoms of Leaky Heart Valve

Symptoms may develop gradually and depend on severity:

• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Swelling in legs or feet
• Heart palpitations
• Chest discomfort
• Reduced exercise tolerance

In mild cases, symptoms may not be noticeable.

Causes of Valve Regurgitation

Heart valve regurgitation can be caused by:

• Congenital valve defects
• Age-related degeneration
• Rheumatic heart disease
• Heart infections (endocarditis)
• High blood pressure
• Previous heart attack
• Damage to heart muscle

Risk Factors

Factors that increase risk include:

• Aging
• History of heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Infections affecting the heart
• Congenital heart abnormalities

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should seek medical attention if you experience:

• Persistent breathlessness
• Swelling in legs or abdomen
• Irregular heartbeat
• Fatigue affecting daily activities

Early consultation at a cardiologist hospital in Delhi can help prevent complications.

Diagnosis of Valve Regurgitation

Doctors may recommend:

• Echocardiography (primary test)
• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Chest X-ray
• Cardiac MRI or CT scan
• Cardiac catheterization

At Moolchand Hospital Delhi, advanced imaging allows precise evaluation of valve function.

Treatment Options for Leaky Heart Valve

Treatment depends on severity and symptoms.

1. Monitoring

Mild cases may only require regular follow-up.

2. Medications

Medications may help reduce symptoms and improve heart function.

3. Valve Repair

Surgical or minimally invasive procedures may repair the damaged valve.

4. Valve Replacement

In severe cases, the valve may need to be replaced with a mechanical or biological valve.

At Moolchand Hospital, one of the best cardiac hospitals in Delhi, patients benefit from advanced valve repair and replacement procedures performed by experienced specialists.

Complications of Valve Regurgitation

If untreated, it may lead to:

• Heart failure
• Arrhythmias
• Enlargement of the heart
• Reduced quality of life

Timely treatment significantly improves outcomes.

Prevention and Lifestyle Care

You can support heart health by:

• Managing blood pressure
• Maintaining a healthy diet
• Regular exercise
• Preventing infections
• Regular cardiac check-ups

Why Choose Moolchand Hospital?

Patients trust Moolchand Hospital Lajpat Nagar for cardiac care because of:

• Experienced cardiologists and cardiac surgeons
• Advanced diagnostic and surgical facilities
• Expertise in cardiothoracic vascular surgery
• Comprehensive heart care services
• Trusted legacy as a leading private hospital in Delhi

For those searching for a hospital near Lajpat Nagar or the best heart hospital in Delhi, Moolchand offers expert care with compassion and precision.