Does valve insufficiency require immediate treatment?

Apr 17, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
Whether heart valve insufficiency requires immediate treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Mild valve insufficiency, which does not cause significant symptoms, usually does not require immediate treatment. However, when valve insufficiency is caused by conditions such as cardiac enlargement or rheumatic heart disease, it may lead to symptoms like chest tightness, palpitations, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, it can even result in sudden death, necessitating prompt medical treatment at a hospital.

In general, whether valve insufficiency requires immediate treatment depends on the severity of the condition. It is recommended to go to the hospital for a thorough evaluation to determine the extent of the disease. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Not required

Valvular insufficiency includes mitral regurgitation, tricuspid regurgitation, and aortic regurgitation. If the valvular insufficiency is mild in all cases, it usually does not cause significant clinical symptoms and does not require immediate treatment. Instead, regular follow-up examinations as directed by a physician are advised.

2. Required

Valvular insufficiency caused by cardiac enlargement or conditions such as rheumatic heart disease may lead to symptoms including chest tightness, palpitations, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, it could even result in sudden death, necessitating prompt medical treatment. Common treatments include taking anticoagulant medications as prescribed—such as warfarin sodium tablets, rivaroxaban tablets, or enteric-coated aspirin tablets—or undergoing surgical interventions such as valve repair or prosthetic valve replacement.

It is recommended to actively pursue treatment under the guidance of a physician to avoid delays that could worsen symptoms and increase treatment difficulty.