Medically Reviewed by Ravi H. Parikh, MD

When it comes to heart disease, many people are familiar with conditions like heart attacks or irregular heart rhythms, but there’s another category of heart-related issues that doesn’t always get as much attention—structural heart disease. Dr. Ravi Parikh, an interventional cardiologist at McLeod Health, breaks down what makes structural heart disease unique, its symptoms, treatment options, and how to be proactive about heart health.

What is Structural Heart Disease?

At its core, structural heart disease refers to problems with the physical structure of the heart, specifically its tissues and valves. Unlike other forms of heart disease, which might involve blockages or abnormal rhythms, structural heart disease is more about the anatomy of the heart itself.

Structural heart disease commonly involves issues like leaky valves, where blood flows backward through the heart, or stenotic valves, which are valves that fail to open properly. Additionally, there are congenital conditions like holes in the heart, which people may be born with. While some of these issues are congenital, others develop over time, particularly as we age or if certain risk factors accelerate wear and tear on the heart.

Recognizing the Symptoms

While the symptoms of structural heart disease can overlap with other types of heart disease, there are some common signs to watch out for. People with structural heart problems often experience:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest discomfort
• Fatigue or general tiredness
• Swelling in the legs, which is a common sign of fluid retention due to heart failure
• Abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
• High or low blood pressure

Since these symptoms can overlap with more general heart conditions, Dr. Parikh notes that it can sometimes be tricky to pinpoint structural heart disease right away without further testing.

Treatment Options for Structural Heart Disease

When it comes to treating structural heart disease, Dr. Parikh emphasizes that there are a variety of approaches, depending on the specific condition and the patient’s overall health. McLeod Health has a comprehensive structural heart program where cardiologists, surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other specialists collaborate to determine the best treatment plan for each patient.

The treatment options include:

• Valve Replacements: These can be performed either through traditional open-heart surgery or minimally invasive procedures, such as a valve replacement through the groin.
• Valve Repair: In some cases, it’s possible to repair the valve rather than replace it entirely.
• Device Implants: For conditions like holes in the heart, certain devices can be used to plug the holes, preventing further complications.
• Left Atrial Appendage Closure: This procedure is often used in patients with atrial fibrillation to reduce the risk of stroke.

The multidisciplinary team at McLeod Health works closely to develop an individualized treatment plan based on the patient’s specific needs and anatomy, which could include a mix of surgical and non-surgical interventions.

Proactive Measures to Prevent Structural Heart Disease

While some aspects of structural heart disease are genetic or congenital, there are several preventive measures that can reduce the likelihood of developing these conditions as you age. Dr. Parikh highlights that managing risk factors plays a critical role in preventing or delaying the onset of structural heart issues.

Here are some key steps to take:

• Control High Blood Pressure: Consistently high blood pressure can strain the heart and its valves, leading to structural problems over time.
• Manage Cholesterol and Diabetes: Keeping cholesterol and blood sugar levels in check helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular issues.
• Don’t Smoke: Smoking accelerates the degeneration of heart valves and increases the risk of other heart diseases.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight and Exercise Regularly: Staying active and managing your weight can reduce strain on the heart and improve overall cardiovascular health.

Dr. Parikh points out that while about 10% of adults over the age of 75 will experience some form of structural heart disease, those who manage their risk factors are more likely to have better treatment outcomes. The key is addressing these factors early and consistently.

Conclusion

Structural heart disease may not always be in the spotlight when we think about heart health, but it’s a significant part of the overall cardiovascular landscape. With the right diagnosis, treatment, and proactive lifestyle choices, patients can manage their condition and maintain a good quality of life. The structural heart team at McLeod Health is committed to providing comprehensive, cutting-edge care to address these complex heart conditions, ensuring the best outcomes for each individual.

Find a McLeod cardiologist near you.