Heart valve disease and structural heart disease are closely related terms, and they’re often used together in cardiology discussions. While these conditions share similarities, they are not identical. Understanding the difference can help patients better understand their diagnosis and treatment options.
Below, we’re looking at heart valve disease vs. structural heart disease, key differences between the two, and how each is diagnosed.
What Is Structural Heart Disease?
Structural heart disease is a broad term that refers to problems with the heart’s structure, including its valves, walls, chambers, or major vessels. These conditions may be present at birth (congenital) or develop over time because of aging, infection, or other health issues.
Common types of structural heart disease include:
- Heart valve disorders
- Congenital heart defects (such as atrial septal defects)
- Enlarged or weakened heart chambers
- Abnormal openings or connections within the heart
Because structural heart disease encompasses multiple conditions, symptoms can vary widely. Some people may experience:
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Chest discomfort
- Swelling in the legs or abdomen
- Irregular heartbeat
It’s important to note that in some cases, structural heart disease may present with few or no symptoms in its early stages.
What Is Heart Valve Disease?
Heart valve disease is a specific type of structural heart disease that affects one or more of the heart’s four valves:
- Aortic valve
- Mitral valve
- Tricuspid valve
- Pulmonary valve
These valves help keep blood flowing in the correct direction through the heart. When a valve is damaged or doesn’t function properly, it can disrupt normal blood flow.
The two main types of valve problems are:
- Stenosis: The valve becomes stiff or narrowed, restricting blood flow.
- Regurgitation (or insufficiency): The valve does not close properly, allowing blood to leak backward.
Common examples of heart valve disease include:
- Aortic stenosis
- Mitral regurgitation
- Mitral valve prolapse
Symptoms of valve disease often overlap with other heart conditions and may include:
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or fainting
- Heart palpitations
- Swelling in the ankles or feet
Structural vs. Valvular Heart Disease: Key Differences
While the terms are related, the main difference is scope.
Structural heart disease is the broader category that includes any abnormality in the heart’s structure.
Heart valve disease is one specific type of structural heart disease that affects the valves.
In other words, all heart valve disease is structural heart disease, but not all structural heart disease involves the valves.
How Are These Heart Conditions Diagnosed?
Doctors use several tools to diagnose structural and valve-related heart conditions, including:
- Physical exams and medical history
- Echocardiograms (heart ultrasounds)
- CT or MRI scans
- Cardiac catheterization when needed
These tests help specialists understand the exact problem and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Treatments for Structural and Valvular Heart Disease
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the condition. Some patients may simply need regular monitoring and medications. Others may benefit from advanced procedures, including minimally invasive, catheter-based treatments that repair or replace parts of the heart without open-heart surgery.
Early evaluation is important, especially if you’re experiencing symptoms or have been told you have a heart murmur or valve problem.
Need to know more? Give our cardiologists, who are board-certified in New Jersey, a call today. A structural heart specialist can help determine the exact cause of your symptoms.