10/30/2025
When patients are told they have a valve issue, it is usually one of two types: stenosis or regurgitation. Both affect how blood flows through the heart, but they work in opposite ways. In some cases, patients can actually have stenosis and regurgitation of the same valve.
In stenosis, the valve becomes stiff or narrowed. This makes it harder for blood to pass through, so the heart has to work harder just to push blood forward. Over time, this increased pressure can weaken the heart muscle.
In regurgitation, the valve does not close all the way. This causes blood to leak backward into the previous chamber. The heart ends up pumping more than it should to keep circulation moving, which can also lead to fatigue and heart strain.
The symptoms may overlap, but the treatment plan is different. That is why understanding which issue you have matters. Early detection and regular monitoring can make a significant difference.