What is mild mitral and tricuspid valve regurgitation in children?
During a routine physical examination, it was found that the child has mild regurgitation of the mitral and tricuspid valves. After running or jumping, the child often becomes short of breath and occasionally complains of chest tightness. I would like to ask what condition this is and whether it is serious?
Doctor's answer (1)
Mild mitral or tricuspid valve regurgitation in children is a type of heart valve disease, specifically referring to the incomplete closure of the mitral or tricuspid valve during the heart's pumping process, resulting in a small amount of blood flowing backward.
Under normal circumstances, heart valves ensure unidirectional blood flow, whereas valve regurgitation, also known as insufficiency or incompetence, disrupts this mechanism. In children, mild valve regurgitation is relatively common and is often functional or physiological, possibly related to subtle developmental abnormalities in the heart structure.
In most cases, this degree of regurgitation does not cause noticeable symptoms or significantly affect heart function. Children generally grow and develop normally and usually do not require specific treatment. However, regular echocardiographic examinations are recommended to monitor any changes in the condition.
However, certain acquired diseases, such as infective endocarditis or rheumatic heart disease, may irritate or damage the heart valves, leading to valve insufficiency and subsequent regurgitation. Congenital heart structural abnormalities or other connective tissue disorders may also cause mitral or tricuspid valve regurgitation.
If symptoms are severe or progressively worsening, prompt medical attention should be sought, and medical or surgical treatment should be administered according to medical advice.
