Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
Mitral valve stenosis
MITRAL VALVE DISEASE
If you are experiencing mitral valve problems, our HCA UK cardiology experts can help to diagnose and treat you
About mitral stenosis
Mitral stenosis occurs when your mitral valve doesn't open as widely it should. The flow of blood through the heart may then become restricted. For milder cases, your consultant may recommend medications. Similar to mitral regurgitation, surgery may be required to correct the valve in more severe cases.
Need to know
Rheumatic heart disease is the only common cause of mitral stenosis. Initially the heart can become inflamed due to infection. This may cause the mitral valve to harden, preventing blood flowing naturally from the heart. If left untreated, you may then experience the following:
- atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat)
- pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in the blood vessels supporting the lungs)
- heart failure (the heart is unable to pump enough blood around the body)
Early symptoms might include:
- dizziness
- tiredness / fatigue
- breathlessness
- chest pain
- coughing of blood
Your consultant will discuss your symptoms with you and help to make a diagnosis. Tests we offer to diagnose include:
- chest X-ray
- electrocardiogram (ECG) to measure the heart's electrical activity and heartbeat
- echocardiogram to assess any issues on the inside of the heart
Your consultant will discuss your treatment options and help to determine the best approach for you. These may include:
- medications to control symptoms
- ongoing medication to ensure the stenosis is not getting any worse
- mitral valve repair known as a balloon valvuloplasty
- If balloon valvuloplasty is not possible, surgical options such as mitral valve replacement, might have to be considered.
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David’s gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist, former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.