sydänläppäongelma

Sydänläppäongelma, also known as valvular heart disease, refers to any condition that affects the proper functioning of the heart valves. The heart has four main valves: the aortic, mitral, pulmonary, and tricuspid valves. These valves ensure that blood flows in the correct direction through the heart chambers and out to the body. When a valve is damaged or diseased, it can either fail to open fully (stenosis) or fail to close properly (regurgitation or insufficiency).

Stenosis occurs when a valve narrows, restricting blood flow. This forces the heart to work harder to pump blood through the narrowed opening, which can lead to thickening of the heart muscle. Regurgitation happens when a valve doesn't close tightly, allowing blood to leak backward into the chamber it just left. This backward flow reduces the efficiency of the heart's pumping action.

Causes of sydänläppäongelma are varied and can include congenital defects present at birth, wear and tear over time, rheumatic fever, infections, heart attacks, and other conditions that damage the heart muscle or valves. Symptoms can range from none to severe and may include shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, swelling in the legs or ankles, and heart palpitations. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, listening to the heart with a stethoscope, and diagnostic tests such as echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart), electrocardiogram (ECG), and chest X-rays. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the valve problem and can range from medication to manage symptoms and prevent complications to surgical procedures like valve repair or replacement.