What does left heart valve regurgitation mean?

Apr 02, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Tian Hongbo

Introduction

Mitral regurgitation typically refers to backflow of blood at the mitral valve. When regurgitation occurs, blood from the left ventricle flows backward into the left atrium. Mild mitral regurgitation may be caused by physiological factors and usually does not require specific treatment. However, more severe mitral regurgitation is often due to pathological causes.

Mitral regurgitation, commonly referred to as left-sided valve regurgitation, occurs when blood flows backward through the mitral valve.

The normal heart has four valves: the mitral valve, tricuspid valve, aortic valve, and pulmonary valve. The mitral valve is located between the left atrium and the left ventricle. Under normal conditions, blood flows from the left atrium into the left ventricle, maintaining proper cardiac function. When mitral regurgitation occurs, blood from the left ventricle flows back into the left atrium. Mild mitral regurgitation may be caused by physiological factors, and in such cases, the patient's cardiac structure is typically normal, requiring no specific treatment. However, more severe mitral regurgitation is often due to pathological causes, such as mitral valve dysplasia or rheumatic heart disease. It is recommended to seek medical evaluation for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Severe mitral regurgitation can impair normal heart function. Timely examination and treatment are advised to prevent damage to the heart, liver, kidneys, and other organs.

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Is severe heart valve regurgitation serious?

In general, the severity of mitral valve regurgitation depends on the specific circumstances. Moderate to severe regurgitation is usually considered serious, while mild regurgitation may not be. Mitral valve regurgitation typically occurs secondary to cardiac enlargement, such as that caused by various cardiomyopathies or mitral valve insufficiency.