Heart Valve Disease

Heart Valve Disease – Private Cardiologist in London

What Is Heart Valve Disease?

Heart valve disease occurs when one or more of the heart’s valves become damaged or do not work properly, disrupting normal blood flow through the heart. The four valves—aortic, mitral, tricuspid, and pulmonary—open and close with each heartbeat to keep blood moving in the right direction.

When valves become narrowed (stenosis) or leaky (regurgitation/incompetence), the heart has to work harder to pump blood, which may lead to symptoms such as breathlessness, fatigue, and even heart failure if left untreated.

At London Heart Group, our expert private cardiologists in Harley Street specialise in the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of all types of heart valve disease using advanced imaging and tailored care plans.

Common Symptoms of Heart Valve Disease

Symptoms may develop gradually or suddenly, depending on the type and severity of the valve problem. Common signs include:

  • Shortness of breath, especially on exertion or when lying flat

  • Fatigue or weakness

  • Palpitations or irregular heartbeat

  • Chest pain or tightness

  • Dizziness or light-headedness

  • Swelling in the ankles, legs, or abdomen

  • A heart murmur, often detected during a routine examination

Some patients with early-stage valve disease may have no symptoms at all. That’s why routine cardiac screening is essential—especially if you have a heart murmur or risk factors.

Types of Heart Valve Disease

At London Heart Group, we diagnose and treat all forms of valve disease, including:

  • Aortic stenosis – narrowing of the aortic valve, often age-related

  • Mitral regurgitation – leaking of the mitral valve, common in mitral valve prolapse

  • Aortic regurgitation – leaking of the aortic valve

  • Mitral stenosis – narrowing of the mitral valve

  • Tricuspid and pulmonary valve disease – less common, but often secondary to other heart conditions

  • Congenital valve abnormalities – such as bicuspid aortic valve

What Causes Heart Valve Disease?

Heart valve problems can be present at birth (congenital) or develop later in life due to:

  • Age-related degeneration (especially aortic stenosis)

  • Rheumatic fever (now rare in the UK)

  • Infections such as endocarditis

  • High blood pressure or heart enlargement

  • Connective tissue disorders (e.g. Marfan syndrome)

  • Previous heart attacks or damage to the heart muscle

Identifying the cause helps guide the best approach to treatment and long-term management.

How Is Heart Valve Disease Diagnosed?

Accurate diagnosis is crucial to determine the severity and progression of valve disease. At London Heart Group, we use advanced cardiac imaging, often available same day, including:

  • Echocardiography (transthoracic and transoesophageal) – the gold standard for valve assessment

  • ECG (electrocardiogram) – to detect rhythm disturbances or strain

  • Cardiac MRI or CT – for detailed anatomical and functional imaging

  • Stress testing – to assess valve function under physical exertion

  • Blood tests – to check for infection, inflammation, or associated conditions

Our Harley Street clinic ensures rapid access to world-class diagnostics and personalised care.

How Is Heart Valve Disease Treated?

Treatment depends on the type, severity, and symptoms. Many patients with mild valve disease are managed conservatively with regular monitoring and lifestyle advice. Treatment options include:

1. Monitoring and Medical Management

  • Regular cardiac imaging to assess progression

  • Blood pressure and heart rate control

  • Antibiotics for infection risk (e.g. endocarditis prevention)

2. Valve Repair or Replacement

If symptoms worsen or valve dysfunction becomes severe, we may recommend:

  • Minimally invasive valve repair

  • Surgical valve replacement (mechanical or biological valves)

  • Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) – a non-surgical option for aortic stenosis

Our consultants will guide you through all treatment options and help you decide what’s right for you. We work closely with London’s top cardiac surgeons and interventional specialists to deliver a seamless, world-class service.

Book a Private Heart Valve Consultation in London

Concerned about a heart murmur, breathlessness, or a diagnosed valve condition? Early assessment can prevent complications and help you stay healthy.

Call today or book a private consultation online with London Heart Group – expert cardiology care in Harley Street, London Bridge and across Central London.