Läppävikoja

Läppävikoja refers to defects or malfunctions of heart valves. The heart has four valves: the mitral valve, tricuspid valve, aortic valve, and pulmonary valve. These valves ensure that blood flows in the correct direction through the heart chambers and out to the body. When a valve is defective, it can either fail to open properly (stenosis) or fail to close completely (regurgitation or insufficiency).

Aortic stenosis is a common valve defect where the aortic valve narrows, restricting blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta. Mitral regurgitation occurs when the mitral valve does not close tightly, allowing blood to flow backward into the left atrium. Tricuspid regurgitation involves the tricuspid valve leaking blood back into the right atrium. Pulmonary stenosis is a narrowing of the pulmonary valve, hindering blood flow from the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery.

Symptoms of läppävikoja can vary depending on the type and severity of the defect. They may include shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, dizziness, and swelling in the legs or ankles. Some individuals may have no symptoms for a long time. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart), and sometimes other imaging tests. Treatment options range from medication to manage symptoms to surgical intervention, such as valve repair or replacement, for more severe cases.