Going into detail on what this term means and how it relates to health guidelines. This article may be incomplete.
Rheumatic mitral stenosis is a condition characterized by narrowing of the mitral valve opening in the heart due to scarring and thickening of the valve leaflets. This typically occurs as a result of rheumatic fever, an inflammatory condition caused by untreated streptococcal infections. Over time, the inflammation associated with rheumatic fever can lead to damage to the mitral valve, resulting in the narrowing of the valve opening and obstructing the flow of blood from the left atrium to the left ventricle of the heart.
Individuals with rheumatic mitral stenosis may experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, and palpitations. In severe cases, complications such as atrial fibrillation, blood clots, and heart failure can develop. Diagnosis of rheumatic mitral stenosis involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests such as echocardiography to assess the severity of the stenosis and its impact on heart function.
Treatment for rheumatic mitral stenosis aims to relieve symptoms, improve heart function, and prevent complications. This may involve medications to manage symptoms, control heart rate or rhythm abnormalities, and prevent blood clots. In cases of severe stenosis, procedures such as balloon valvuloplasty or surgical repair or replacement of the mitral valve may be necessary to alleviate the obstruction and improve blood flow through the heart. Long-term management of rheumatic mitral stenosis often requires close monitoring by a cardiologist to optimize treatment strategies and ensure the best possible outcomes for the patient.