Rheumatic heart valve disease is valve damage that follows rheumatic fever after an untreated streptococcal throat infection. Diagnosis and treatment are provided in Istanbul, Turkey.
In short: Untreated strep throat can trigger rheumatic fever, which scars the heart valves (often the mitral valve) so they narrow or leak. Treatment ranges from medication to valve repair or replacement; prevention starts with treating strep throat promptly.
What is rheumatic heart valve disease?
It is chronic damage to one or more heart valves caused by rheumatic fever — an immune reaction to a streptococcal (group A) throat infection. The mitral valve is most often affected, followed by the aortic valve.
How it develops
The pathway shown above is: an untreated strep throat, then rheumatic fever, then gradual valve scarring that makes the valve narrow (stenosis) or leak (regurgitation) over years.
Symptoms
- Breathlessness, especially on exertion.
- Fatigue and reduced exercise capacity.
- Palpitations (atrial fibrillation can develop).
- Swelling of the legs in advanced disease.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on examination and an echocardiogram to assess the valves, supported by ECG and the patient’s history of rheumatic fever.
Treatment & prevention
- Medication for symptoms, rhythm and stroke-risk where relevant.
- Valve repair when feasible.
- Valve replacement for severely damaged valves.
- Prevention: prompt treatment of strep throat and, in some cases, preventive antibiotics.
Why Choose Turkey (Istanbul)?
- Over 30 years of experience in cardiovascular and vascular surgery with Prof. Dr. Yusuf Kalko.
- Modern minimally invasive and hybrid techniques.
- English- and Arabic-speaking support for international patients.
- Easy access to Istanbul from the Gulf, Europe and beyond.
- Remote assessment before travel, then treatment and appointment planning.
How to Start From Abroad (Remote Consultation)
You can send your medical reports and scan images via WhatsApp for an initial assessment before traveling. We then plan your treatment and appointment in Istanbul, Turkey, and support international patients at every step.
To evaluate your heart valves in Istanbul (Beylikdüzü) and plan suitable treatment, contact us on WhatsApp.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is rheumatic heart disease preventable?
Largely yes — prompt treatment of strep throat prevents most cases, which is why early infection care matters.
Which valve is most affected?
The mitral valve is most commonly affected, followed by the aortic valve.
Is surgery always needed?
No. Mild disease is monitored and managed medically; surgery (repair or replacement) is reserved for significant valve damage.
Do you treat international patients?
Yes. We welcome international and Gulf patients in Turkey (Istanbul), with English- and Arabic-speaking support throughout assessment and treatment.
How can I book an appointment from abroad?
Via WhatsApp: send your inquiry and medical reports, and we will arrange your appointment and explain the steps before and after arriving in Istanbul.
Can I have a consultation before traveling?
Yes. An initial remote assessment can be made based on your reports and scans before you come to Turkey.
How much does treatment cost?
Cost depends on your condition and the treatment plan. For an estimate, contact us via WhatsApp with your medical reports attached.