Heart Valves

Table of Contents

Other names

Cardiac valves
Atrioventricular and semilunar valves
Mitral/tricuspid/aortic/pulmonary valves

Synopsis

The heart valves are four specialized structures within the heart that regulate blood flow through the heart chambers and into the major arteries. These include the mitral valve, tricuspid valve, aortic valve, and pulmonary valve. Their primary function is to open and close at precise times during each heartbeat, ensuring unidirectional blood flow and preventing backflow.

Each valve has a distinct role:

  • Tricuspid valve: Between the right atrium and right ventricle

  • Pulmonary valve: Between the right ventricle and pulmonary artery

  • Mitral valve: Between the left atrium and left ventricle

  • Aortic valve: Between the left ventricle and aorta

When functioning properly, the valves ensure that oxygen-poor blood flows to the lungs and oxygen-rich blood flows to the body. If a valve becomes narrowed (stenosis), leaky (regurgitation), or prolapsed, it can impair circulation and lead to symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, or chest discomfort.

Valve problems may be congenital or develop due to aging, rheumatic fever, endocarditis, high blood pressure, or degenerative changes.

When to see a doctor:
Evaluation is necessary if there are signs of heart murmur, breathlessness, swelling in the legs, or irregular heartbeat. Diagnosis is typically made via echocardiogram, ECG, or cardiac MRI.

Natural Remedies

Maintain Blood Pressure: Reduces stress on valve tissues.

Cardiovascular Exercise (as tolerated): Improves circulation and heart efficiency.

Eat an Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Supports vascular health and reduces oxidative damage.

Avoid Smoking and Excess Alcohol: Preserves endothelial and valve integrity.

Monitor Cholesterol and Inflammation Markers: Key for preventing aortic and mitral degeneration.