Here are some tips for people with heart valve disease. They are also applicable if you’ve had the situation addressed through replacement or repair.

Take antibiotics before medical tests or procedures that involve bleeding, such as major or even minor surgery. You are at risk of an infection called endocarditis even if you’ve had a valve repair or replacement.

Make sure your dentist knows any medications you are taking, and that you have valvular disease, so you can be given antibiotics before cleanings and other procedures as well.

Carry an identification card that indicates that you have heart valve disease. This will help doctors to understand how best to treat you in case of a cardiac event.

You can get these cards from a doctor or download one from the American Heart Association.