What to Make of Pulmonary Valve Regurg?

[KimC]

Hi, everyone.

I meet with my cardio for a six-month check-up in a couple of weeks. One of the questions I have relates to pulmonary valve regurgitation, something noted on my echo for the first time. I know a LOT about aortic regurg but NADA about PVR.

What causes PVR, what questions should I ask about it, etc.?

Thanks and best,

 

[cam4est]

Kim, unfortunately I have lots of experience with pulmonary valve regurg. There are different degrees of it and usually unless you are quite symptomatic, they will just wait and watch. One good thing is that since it occurs in the right heart, there is less pressure and patients usually can tolerate a good deal of regurg before anything is done. In my case, it was caused by a severely stenotic pulmonary artery (quite impressive looking in the MRI!). The artery was stenotic due to weakening of the artery from a pulmonary banding at 4 monts of age. Since your last echo was the first time it has shown up it is good to keep track of it and of any SOB or fatigue you experience. Ask your dr. to what degree it is in regurg and then how often he wants to follow up with echoes. Good luck and let us know what he says. Karen

 

[gijanet]

OH, Kim...............

OH, Kim...............

I'm no help whatsoever, but just wanted to send hugs. I hope you get the info you need to ask some intelligent questions. Please keep us posted and we will be praying. Seen that blue heron lately???? That one still gives me goose bumps. Many hugs. Janet

 

[KimC]

Thank you, Karen and Janet.

Janet, funny you should ask about the blue heron. I saw one out our window yesterday. He was so tall and graceful. I hope your baby is OK!

I'll let you know how my appt. goes. For those of you who know me a bit from this forum, I start worrying when my appts. approach but then am OK.

Thanks again and blessings!

Love,