Mitral stenosis is a medical condition where the valve between the left atrium and left ventricle of the heart is narrowed. This narrowing makes it more difficult for the blood to flow from the atrium to the ventricle, leading to a range of symptoms.

If left untreated, the condition can lead to serious complications, including heart failure.

What Causes Mitral Stenosis?

The most common cause of mitral stenosis is rheumatic fever, a bacterial infection that can damage the heart valve. Rheumatic fever can occur following an untreated or inadequately treated streptococcal infection, such as strep throat.

Other causes of mitral stenosis include:.

Calcium buildup on the valve
Birth defects
Endocarditis, a bacterial infection of the heart
Connective tissue disorders
Cancer
Old age

Symptoms of Mitral Stenosis

The symptoms of mitral stenosis can be subtle and develop slowly over time. In some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. Common symptoms include:.

Shortness of breath, especially during exercise or when lying flat
Fatigue
Chest discomfort or pain
Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat
Lightheadedness or fainting
Swelling in the legs and ankles

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of mitral stenosis often begins with a physical exam and medical history. Your doctor may listen to your heart to check for abnormal sounds, called heart murmurs, and may also perform a range of tests to confirm the diagnosis.

These tests may include:.

Echocardiogram, which uses sound waves to create images of your heart
Chest X-rays
Electrocardiogram (ECG), which records the electrical activity of your heart
Cardiac catheterization, which involves passing a thin tube through a blood vessel and into your heart to check for blockages or other abnormalities

Treatment

The treatment of mitral stenosis depends on the severity of the condition and the presence of any underlying medical conditions. In some cases, medications may be prescribed to reduce symptoms and prevent complications.

If the condition is more severe, procedural or surgical interventions may be necessary. These interventions may include:.

Balloon valvuloplasty, a procedure that uses a catheter with a balloon on the end to inflate the narrowed valve and improve blood flow
Mitral valve repair or replacement surgery
Left atrial appendage occlusion, a procedure that closes off an area of the heart where blood can pool and potentially clot

Prevention

The most effective way to prevent mitral stenosis is to prevent the underlying conditions that can lead to the condition. This includes:.

Treating streptococcal infections promptly and thoroughly
Taking antibiotics as directed to prevent endocarditis
Managing other medical conditions, such as high blood pressure and connective tissue disorders

Conclusion

Mitral stenosis is a serious medical condition that can lead to significant complications if left untreated. Understanding the causes and symptoms of the condition can help you recognize any potential issues early on, and seek appropriate medical care.

With timely and appropriate treatment, many people with mitral stenosis can lead normal, active lives.