Mitral stenosis is a narrowing of the so-called mitral valve of the heart. This defect causes the mitral valve to not open properly, which blocks blood flow to the left ventricle (the heart's main pumping chamber). On other occasions the valve does not close properly and mitral insufficiency occurs.
What are the causes of mitral stenosis?
The main cause of mitral stenosis is an infection called rheumatic fever. This fever is related to streptococcal infections and can cause scarring of the mitral valve, and if left untreated can lead to serious cardiac complications.
How is mitral stenosis diagnosed?
The diagnosis of mitral stenosis is suspected based on physical examination findings.
Mitral stenosis causes an abnormal heart sound, known as a heart murmur.
The cardiologist will also listen to the lungs to check for fluid accumulation in the lungs, which may be a manifestation. The diagnosis and severity will be confirmed with cardiology studies:
Transthoracic echocardiogram
Sound waves are directed at the heart from a wand-like device (transducer) that rests on the chest to provide video images of the heart's motion.
Transesophageal Echocardiogram
With a transducer attached to the end of a tube inserted into the esophagus, it allows the mitral valve to be viewed more closely than with a regular echocardiogram.
Electrocardiogram
The electrocardiogram measures the electrical impulses emitted by the heart and provides information about the heart rhythm. During the electrocardiogram, you may walk on a treadmill or pedal a stationary bike to see how your heart responds to stress.
Chest X-ray
A chest x-ray can determine if any chambers of the heart are enlarged and how the lungs are positioned.
What is the treatment for mitral stenosis?
Treatment for mitral stenosis depends on the patient's symptoms and severity. Some of the treatments for mitral stenosis are:
Medical treatment
There are no medications that can correct a mitral valve defect. However, some medications can reduce symptoms.
Your cardiologist may prescribe one or more of the following medications:
- Diuretics to reduce fluid buildup in the lungs or elsewhere
- Anticoagulants to prevent blood clots.
- Beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers to slow the heart rate and allow the heart to fill better.
- Antiarrhythmics to treat atrial fibrillation or other rhythm disorders associated with mitral stenosis.
- Antibiotics to prevent recurrence of rheumatic fever if it is the cause of mitral stenosis
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https://cirugiacardiovascular.com.mx/operacion-a-corazon-abierto/enfermedades-cardiovasculares/estenosis-mitral/
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