Medications

Medicines are often used to relieve the symptoms and prevent complications of mitral valve stenosis. Usually they are also prescribed after surgery to repair or replace the valve.

For symptoms

Diuretics ("water pills") reduce fluid buildup and related swelling. They may also lower blood pressure in the upper left heart chamber (left atrium) and relieve breathing problems.

For complications

Medicines used to treat complications include:

• Heart rate or rhythm medicines. If you have an arrhythmia, such as atrial fibrillation, you may have medicine to lower your heart rate or keep it regular.
• Anticoagulants. If you have atrial fibrillation, had surgery to replace or repair your heart valve, or have a mechanical heart valve, you might take an anticoagulant. These medicines help prevent dangerous blood clots.
• Heart failure medicines. If you have heart failure, you may take medicines that relieve your symptoms and slow down how quickly heart failure gets worse. These medicines help lower your blood pressure, reduce fluid buildup, and help your heart to not work so hard.
• Antibiotics. If you have an artificial valve, you may need to take antibiotics before you have certain dental or surgical procedures. You will likely take antibiotics after surgery to repair or replace a valve. If you have had rheumatic fever, you may take antibiotics to avoid getting it again.