Initially, you can expect a follow-up appointment a few weeks post-surgery, then every few months until it’s been a year.

Heart valve disease can be caused by various factors, including:

• Aging: over time, heart valves may thicken, stiffen or develop calcium deposits, affecting their ability to function properly
• Congenital heart defects: some people are born with heart valve abnormalities that may affect the valve’s structure or function
• Infections: infections like endocarditis can damage heart valves, and bacteria or viruses can affect the valve tissue, leading to scarring or infection
• Rheumatic fever: a complication from untreated strep throat that can cause scarring of the heart valves, leading to long-term damage
• High blood pressure (hypertension): chronic high blood pressure can strain the heart and cause damage to the valves, particularly the aortic valve
• Heart disease: conditions like coronary artery disease, heart attack or heart failure can lead to valve problems, especially when the heart’s structure is affected
• Other conditions: diseases such as Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can affect connective tissues and lead to valve problems

Managing risk factors, like controlling blood pressure, cholesterol and treating infections early, can help prevent heart valve disease.

Preventing heart valve problems involves maintaining your overall heart health and managing your risk factors. Controlling high blood pressure through a healthy diet, regular exercise and medication when necessary is essential, as high blood pressure can strain the heart and valves. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly and managing diabetes can reduce the risk of heart disease and valve problems. Smoking should be avoided, as it damages blood vessels, and excessive alcohol intake can also contribute to heart issues. A heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats can help support your cardiovascular health.

Preventing infections, such as strep throat, and treating them promptly can lower the risk of rheumatic fever, which can damage heart valves. Regular checkups with a doctor allow for early detection of valve problems or other heart conditions, while awareness of any family history of valve disease is important for early intervention. By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing heart valve disease and keep your heart beating strong.

The symptoms of heart valve disease can vary depending on the type and severity, but common signs include:

• Chest pain or discomfort: often felt as tightness or pressure in the chest
• Fatigue or weakness: unusual tiredness, especially during physical activity
• Shortness of breath: difficulty breathing, especially during exertion or while lying down
• Heart palpitations: irregular or racing heartbeats
• Swelling in the legs, ankles or abdomen: fluid buildup caused by the heart's inability to pump effectively
• Dizziness or lightheadedness: feeling faint or unsteady, often due to low blood pressure or reduced blood flow
• Fainting or near-fainting: caused by poor blood circulation or arrhythmias

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially chest pain or shortness of breath, it's important to seek immediate medical care so you can get evaluated by a doctor. Early treatment can help manage the condition and prevent complications.

Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is not typically considered a form of heart disease, but it is a heart valve disorder. It occurs when the mitral valve doesn't close properly, causing one or both of its flaps (leaflets) to bulge (prolapse) into the left atrium during heartbeats. While many people with MVP experience no symptoms and live normal lives, it can sometimes lead to complications, such as:

• Mitral valve regurgitation: where blood leaks backward into the left atrium
• Arrhythmias: irregular heart rhythms, which can cause palpitations or dizziness
• Infections: in rare cases, MVP can increase the risk of heart valve infections like endocarditis

In general, MVP is considered a benign condition, but it can be associated with mild to moderate symptoms in some cases, and in rare instances, may lead to more serious heart problems. It's important to monitor the condition with regular checkups if diagnosed, but it doesn't usually fall under the category of heart disease.

If you overeat or have an unhealthy diet, your stomach can stretch, which can lead to health complications.

Since weight-loss surgery isn’t a “quick fix,” you’ll need to be willing to commit to a healthier diet and regular exercise before and after surgery.

While every patient is unique, it generally takes three to six weeks to fully recover.