Heart Valve Disease (cont.)

When you have valve disease, it is important to protect yourself from future heart problems, even if your valve has been repaired or replaced with surgery. Here are some tips to stay healthy:

• Know the type and extent of your valve disease.
   
• Tell all your doctors and dentist you have valve disease.
   
• Call your doctor if you have symptoms of an infection.
   
• Take good care of your teeth and gums.
   
• Take antibiotics before you undergo any procedure that may cause bleeding.
   
• Carry a wallet card that may be obtained from the American Heart Association with specific antibiotic guidelines.
   
• Take your medications. Your medications are used to control your symptoms and help your heart pump blood more efficiently. Follow your doctor's instructions when you take your medications.
   
• See your heart doctor for regular visits, even if you have no symptoms. Your appointments may be spaced once a year or more often, if your doctor feels you need to be followed more closely.

Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Heart Center. (2005)

SOURCE: American Heart Association

Edited by David W. Stein, MD on December 01, 2006
Edited on October 1, 2005.

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Last Editorial Review: 12/21/2007

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Source: MedicineNet.com
http://www.medicinenet.com/heart_valve_disease/article.htm