Valvular Heart Disease
Also known as: Heart valve disease, Mitral valve disease, Aortic valve disease, Mitral regurgitation, Aortic stenosis
Expert diagnosis and management at Complete Heart Centre. All consultations and diagnostic tests are 100% bulk billed through Medicare. All cardiology referrals accepted.
About Valvular Heart Disease
Valvular heart disease occurs when one or more of the heart's four valves do not function properly. Valves can become narrowed (stenosis), preventing adequate blood flow, or they can leak (regurgitation), causing blood to flow backwards. The most common forms include aortic stenosis (narrowing of the aortic valve, common in older adults), mitral regurgitation (leaking mitral valve), and mitral valve prolapse. Valvular heart disease can be congenital (present from birth) or acquired over time due to wear and tear, infection, or other heart conditions. Mild valve disease may not need treatment but requires monitoring, while severe valve disease can lead to heart failure and may require surgical intervention. Dr Grewal has a special interest in the management of valvular heart disease.
Common Symptoms
- Shortness of breath, especially during activity or lying down
- Heart murmur detected by your GP
- Chest pain or tightness
- Fatigue and reduced exercise capacity
- Swelling in the ankles or feet
- Dizziness or fainting, particularly with aortic stenosis
When to See a Cardiologist
If your GP has detected a heart murmur, or if you experience worsening breathlessness, chest pain, or exercise intolerance, a cardiologist can assess your heart valves using imaging. Regular monitoring is important for known valve conditions to determine the right time for intervention if needed.
How We Investigate
An echocardiogram is the primary test for diagnosing and monitoring valve disease. It provides detailed images of all four heart valves, showing their structure, movement, and blood flow patterns in real time. A stress echocardiogram may be used to assess how valve disease affects heart function during exercise, which helps guide decisions about the need for intervention.
$0
Your cost with Medicare
Related Diagnostic Services
Need Urgent Help?
If you are experiencing sudden or severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness, call 000 immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about valvular heart disease.
Other Conditions We Treat
All consultations and diagnostic tests are 100% bulk billed through Medicare.
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Concerned About Valvular Heart Disease?
With a Medicare card and GP referral, your specialist consultation and all diagnostic tests are fully bulk billed. Book at our Sydenham, Bundoora or Williams Landing clinic.