Tricuspid Valve Disease

Tricuspid valve disease is a group of congenital condition in which the valve between the right atrium and the right ventricle is not functioning properly.

The types of tricuspid valve disease include:

• Tricuspid valve regurgitation (flowing of blood backward from right ventricle)
• Tricuspid valve stenosis (the tricuspid valve is narrowed)
• Tricuspid atresia (the valve is replaced by a solid tissue) and
• Ebstein anomaly (tricuspid valve is lower than the normal position)

Depending on the type of tricuspid valve disease, the symptoms differ. The most important signs and symptoms are:

• Paleness or blue tinge of the skin.
• Edema of the lower extremities.
• Getting tired easily and difficulty breathing.

The exact cause of congenital anomalies is unknown but a family history of congenital heart defect or chromosomal defect may increase the risk for the baby being born with such disorder.

Treatment for Tricuspid Valve Disease depends on the type of tricuspid valve disease and the severity. Different surgical procedures are required for different type of defect.

Some important surgical methods include:

• Atrial or ventricular septostomy.
• Heart valve repair and replacement among others.

Some medications are given before the surgical procedure to dilate the blood vessels or to preventive complications. Follow-up treatment is required to check the condition from time to time.

There are no alternative or homeopathic remedies in case of tricuspid valve disease, bit certain things can be done at home like:

• Family bonding.
• Eating nutritious food.
• Being active while taking enough rest and talking to the doctor if needed.

To cope with tricuspid valve disease, joining support groups, taking help from family and friends, knowing about the disease more would help in the near future.

Also making record from diagnosis till treatment including follow-up would be very helpful.

Risk factors for developing tricuspid valve defects include:

• Mother infected with measles or other viral infections.
• Smoking or drinking alcohol while being pregnant.
• Taking certain medication during pregnancy.
• Undernutrition of mother.
• Diabetic mother and chromosomal disorders.

Complications of such defect include arrhythmias (heart rhythm problems) and heart failure.