1. Recognize Common Symptoms
Being able to identify common symptoms of mitral valve stenosis allows you to diagnose this potentially serious heart condition and begin to undergo treatment. People who have mitral stenosis have a narrowing in the mitral valve, which prevents blood from flowing to the left heart chambers the way it does in a healthy person. Symptoms can vary in intensity from individual to individual, and may include fatigue and difficulty breathing, especially when you are in a prone (lying down) position. You may experience a fluttering or "tight" sensation in your chest, and are more vulnerable to respiratory infections. Some people who have mitral stenosis cough up blood as well. During a physical examination, your doctor may notice more symptoms, such as fluid in your lungs, heart arrhythmias and blood clots.
2. Use Imaging as a Diagnostic Tool
Several types of imaging tests can be used to confirm a diagnosis of mitral stenosis. An echocardiogram will give your doctor a picture of your heart so he can determine if there is narrowing of the valve, and a transesophageal echocardiogram provides an image of how your blood flows through the valve. An x-ray can show enlargement of your heart's left atrium, a phenomenon that is consistent with mitral stenosis. You may undergo an ECG or be asked to wear a Holter monitor. Both of these methods record your heart's activity, and can detect abnormal rhythms.
3. Undergo Invasive Procedures
In addition to the other tests your doctor will most likely order for you, a more invasive procedure may be necessary to diagnose your mitral valve problems. During a cardiac catheterization, a dye will be placed in the arteries of your heart. The dye will show up when X-rayed, and will reveal how much damage has been done to your heart.
