Cardiology in Lagos
Heart Valve Disease
The signs, what causes it, and when to see a cardiology specialist in Lagos.
Signs to look for
Heart Valve Disease
- Breathlessness, especially on exertion or lying flat
- Tiredness and weakness
- Swollen ankles and feet
- Palpitations
- Chest pain or tightness
The heart has four valves that keep blood flowing the right way. In valve disease, a valve becomes narrowed so blood cannot get through easily, or leaky so blood flows backwards, and the heart has to work harder. Causes include valve damage after rheumatic fever in childhood (rheumatic heart disease), wear with age, high blood pressure, infection of a valve, a heart attack, or a valve problem present from birth. Rheumatic heart disease remains common in sub-Saharan Africa and often affects young adults. Mild disease is watched; severe disease is treated with valve repair or replacement.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Breathlessness, especially on exertion or lying flat
- Tiredness and weakness
- Swollen ankles and feet
- Palpitations
- Chest pain or tightness
- Dizziness or fainting
When to See a Doctor
Go to a hospital now for chest pain or tightness that does not settle, sudden severe breathlessness, fainting, or coughing up pink frothy phlegm. Go the same day if you have a known valve problem or an artificial valve and develop a fever that will not settle, because a valve infection needs urgent treatment. See a doctor soon for breathlessness on exertion, swollen ankles or a murmur someone has heard, and ask for an echocardiogram.
Treatment options
- An echocardiogram to see how each valve works
- Regular check-ups and echocardiograms for mild disease
- Medicines to ease breathlessness, control the heart rate and prevent clots
- Monthly penicillin injections for years after rheumatic fever, to prevent further damage
- Valve repair or replacement for severe disease
What it costs on Mezo
Starting cash prices for the treatments used for this condition.
Common Questions
What is rheumatic heart disease?
Damage to the heart valves left by rheumatic fever, which follows an untreated strep throat infection in childhood. Treating sore throats with antibiotics, and regular penicillin after rheumatic fever, prevent it getting worse.
Do I need surgery?
Only for severe disease, especially with symptoms or a heart starting to weaken. Mild and moderate disease is watched with echocardiograms and treated with medicines.
I have an artificial valve. What should I watch for?
Fever, new breathlessness, or bleeding or bruising if you take warfarin. Tell any doctor or dentist about your valve before a procedure, and keep your blood tests up to date.
Need Help?
Find a verified cardiology specialist near you.
Cardiology in Lagos →Cardiology in Abuja →Cardiology in Port Harcourt →Cardiology in Jos →Cardiology in Ibadan →Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Heart valve disease. NHS. Patient information.
- Rheumatic heart disease. World Health Organization, 2025. Fact sheet.
Links last checked 3 November 2026.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.