Leaky valve

[sandee2173]

I have a family member who has a leaky valve and it seems to be becoming a bigger problem now than it was before.  she complains of fatigue and pressure in her chest.  she sometimes feels out of it and won't really focus at times to what is going on.  she also seems stressed with taking care of the family and with school.  can you tell me what type of heart condition she might have? we are not sure and we would like to know if these symtoms will go away or if they are here to stay

[kenkeith]

When regurgitation becomes serious a large portion of the blood back flows into the chambers instead of going into circulation. Fatigue and chest pressure pain can be the result of the low cardiac output.

If the cardiac output is too low that will eventually cause heart cell damage, then contractions will be weak, and heart failure will ensue.  Worst case scenario.

Sometimes the cardiac output is normal, but there are blocked or partially blocked arteries, and because of the occlusion the heart does not get a good supply of blood/oxygen, that could also cause the symptoms described.  If not treated, that would also lead to heart failure, etc.

The symptoms can go away and return later with a serious heart condition.  Some people don't have any warning or symptoms until there is heart failure and require hospitalization.  Your family member should get a check up.