Understanding symptoms of and treatments for structural heart disease

Your heart is composed of four chambers, four valves, and three layers within its wall. Any abnormality of these components is called structural heart disease. These issues can be congenital, which means present from birth, or occur later in life—typically because of the aging process or prior infection.

Left untreated, structural heart issues can significantly impact quality of life and increase the risk of serious complications like heart failure, stroke or death. Treatment by a specialist trained in structural heart issues can improve and even eliminate the symptoms, and better the patient’s chances for a longer, more fulfilling life.

“We use a team-based approach to collaborate among cardiac surgeons and structural heart interventionalists to create personalized care plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs” explains Hitesh Raheja, MD, a Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic interventional cardiologist.

Structural heart programs typically offer diagnostic tools and treatments, including procedures like Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), MitraClip and Watchman. These procedures are less-invasive alternatives to open-heart surgery, resulting in shorter recovery times for many patients in general and are also suitable for patients who are not good candidates for open-heart procedures.

“We’re seeing transformative results,” Dr. Raheja shares. “Patients who, at one time, were not good surgical candidates now have options that improve their quality of life and extend their longevity.”

People may seek care for structural heart conditions for various reasons, including shortness of breath, fatigue or chest pain. Others may not even realize they have a problem until a healthcare provider discovers it during a routine exam. This emphasizes the importance of regular checkups and early intervention.

“If you have risk factors such as a history of rheumatic fever, a congenital heart defect or significant valve disease, it’s important to undergo regular screenings,” Dr. Raheja advises.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with a structural heart condition or are experiencing symptoms that concern you, don’t wait to seek specialized care. Request an appointment with our structural heart team to explore your treatment options and take the first step toward better heart health.

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