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FOR PATIENTS & FAMILIES
Heart valve disease — Take-home summary
The essentials to keep, discuss, and use between visits.
Understand your condition
A valve may be too narrow or leak backward. Severity and symptoms determine the plan. Some conditions need monitoring, while others need repair or replacement.
Everyday care
- Keep planned heart visits and echocardiograms, including after valve procedures.
- Take medicines as directed. A mechanical valve requires a specific warfarin plan.
- Tell your dentist about a replacement valve and ask whether preventive antibiotics apply.
When to contact your care team
Contact your care team promptly for increasing breathlessness, swelling, reduced activity, new palpitations, dizziness, or near-fainting.
When to call 911
Call 911 for chest pressure, severe trouble breathing, or fainting. Do not drive yourself.
Questions for your next visit
- Which valve is affected and how severe is it?
- When is my next echo?
- When should repair or replacement be considered?
Reviewed October 11, 2026. This summary supports your personal care plan.