Medically reviewed by Dr Pinakin V Parekh, General & Interventional Cardiologist (MBBS (Singapore), MRCP (UK), GDFM (Singapore), FAMS (Singapore), FRCP (Glasgow)). Last Updated: 2026, 28 August
Founder & Medical Director of Trident Heart Centre
Dr Pinakin V Parekh is an interventional cardiologist in Singapore with over 20 years of experience in heart care. He specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of heaart diseases, including procedures such as angiogram and angioplasty.
The heart has four valves that control blood flow in the correct direction. These are the aortic, mitral, tricuspid, and pulmonary valves.
Valvular heart disease happens when one or more of these valves do not work properly. This usually occurs in two ways:
Over time, both conditions can make the heart work harder than normal.
Different valves can be affected, and each may cause slightly different symptoms and treatment considerations.
Affects blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. It is one of the most common clinically significant valve conditions.
Affects blood flow between the left chambers of the heart and can cause breathlessness or palpitations.
Less common, often linked to other heart or lung conditions.
Rare, usually congenital (present from birth).
Valvular heart disease can develop for several reasons, depending on the valve involved and patient history. Common causes include:
In many cases, valve disease develops gradually over time.
Symptoms often depend on how severe the valve problem is and how quickly it develops.
You may experience:
Some patients may have no symptoms in the early stages, with the condition only detected on a heart scan.
You should seek medical assessment if you experience:
Early evaluation can help determine the severity of valve disease and guide appropriate monitoring or treatment.
Diagnosis is usually straightforward and based on a combination of clinical examination and imaging tests.
A doctor may detect a heart murmur, which can be an early sign of valve disease.
Checks for associated rhythm abnormalities or heart strain.
A transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) is the first-line test for diagnosing valvular heart disease.
It provides detailed information about:
In some cases, your cardiologist may recommend a transoesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) for a more detailed assessment.
During this procedure, a small ultrasound probe is gently passed through the mouth into the oesophagus (food pipe), allowing clearer images of the heart valves from behind the heart. This can help assess complex valve conditions and assist with treatment planning.
In some cases, further imaging may be recommended:
Treatment depends on the type and severity of valve disease, symptoms, and overall heart function. The goal is to reduce symptoms, prevent progression, and protect long-term heart health.
In many patients, especially in early or mild valve disease, treatment focuses on both symptom control and regular monitoring over time.
This may include:
Because valve disease can change gradually, ongoing review is important to decide if and when further treatment may be needed.
Catheter-Based Valve Interventions (Minimally Invasive Options)
For selected patients, some valve conditions can be treated using minimally invasive catheter-based procedures instead of open-heart surgery.
These include:
These procedures may:
Your cardiologist will assess whether this type of treatment is suitable based on your individual condition.
Patients often value Dr Pinakin’s approach because it focuses on:
Many valve conditions progress gradually. Careful monitoring helps determine when treatment may be beneficial and when observation is appropriate.
Tailoring recommendations based on the type of valve disease, symptom severity, overall health, and individual risk factors.
Focusing on preserving heart function, preventing complications, and ensuring patients receive the right treatment at the right time.
It can range from mild to severe. Some cases need only monitoring, while others may require treatment to prevent complications.
Yes, some valve conditions can gradually progress, which is why regular follow-up is important.
No. Many patients are managed with monitoring and medication. Procedures are only recommended when necessary.
Medication does not repair valves, but it can help control symptoms and reduce strain on the heart.
This depends on severity. Some patients need annual reviews, while others may require more frequent monitoring.
Dr Pinakin uses current, evidence-based methods to carefully evaluate and treat heart conditions, helping you feel confident in your care.
Every patient is treated as an individual, with attention to your full health and lifestyle, not just the heart problem.
From assessment to treatment, screenings and procedures are conveniently coordinated in one place for a smoother, more reassuring experience.
