Question: When a person has an enlarged heart valve, is there any treatment that can help? I have a family member with this condition.

Dr. Hibberd’s answer:

Heart valves function as check points to prevent the backflow of blood. They ensure that blood flows from the heart to the lungs (to be oxygenated), then is returned to be pumped out to our brains and the rest of our bodies.

If a valve is damaged, it may leak and allow backflow, a condition that often requires intervention if this advances. A thickened heart valve may still be functional, but when it leaks — causing backflow or an improper seal — it may also need attention. Sometimes heart valve problems can even be corrected without replacement.