If the restriction is severe, the increased blood pressure can lead to heart failure . The first symptoms of heart failure, which are fatigue and shortness of breath , usually appear only during physical activity. As the condition gets worse, symptoms may also be felt even during rest. A person may also develop a deep red coloring in the cheeks. Diagnosis Mitral valve stenosis is usually detected by a physician listening to heart sounds.
Normal heart valves open silently to permit the flow of blood.
The condition can be confirmed with a chest x ray and an electrocardiogram, both of which will show an enlarged atrium. Echocardiography , which produces images of the heart's structure, is also helpful in making the diagnosis. If surgery is necessary, cardiac catheterization may be done to fully evaluate the heart before the operation. Treatment Drug therapy may help to slow the heart rate, strengthen the heart beat, and control abnormal heart rhythm. Drugs such as beta blockers , calcium channel blockers , and digoxin may be prescribed.