Pregnancy induced tricuspid regurgitation

The occurrence of tricuspid regurgitation during pregnancy is mostly a mild physiological change and usually does not require special treatment. Tricuspid regurgitation may be related to factors such as increased blood volume during pregnancy, increased cardiac burden, previous heart disease, congenital valve abnormalities, and pulmonary hypertension. It is recommended to have regular prenatal check ups to monitor heart function and avoid strenuous exercise. Increased blood volume during pregnancy is a common cause of tricuspid regurgitation. As the fetus develops, the circulating blood volume of pregnant women gradually increases, and the heart needs to pump more blood to meet the needs of both mother and fetus. In this case, the valve may experience brief regurgitation, manifested as mild regurgitation. Daily attention should be paid to controlling sodium intake, avoiding prolonged standing, and raising lower limbs appropriately during sleep to reduce the burden on the heart.

Increased cardiac load may exacerbate valve dysfunction. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause blood vessels to dilate, while the enlarged uterus compresses the inferior vena cava, leading to fluctuations in the amount of blood returning. This type of situation is usually accompanied by shortness of breath or lower limb edema after activity. It is recommended to rest in a left lateral position, wear medical elastic socks to improve circulation, and undergo cardiac ultrasound re examination if necessary. Patients with previous heart disease should be alert to the progression of their condition. If there is a history of rheumatic heart disease, infective endocarditis, etc. before pregnancy, pregnancy may worsen valve damage. This type of reflux is often accompanied by symptoms such as palpitations and fatigue. Pregnancy should be completed under the joint supervision of cardiovascular and obstetric departments to avoid respiratory infections and limit fluid intake. Congenital valve abnormalities may be first discovered during pregnancy. Some populations may have tricuspid valve dysplasia or Ebstein's anomaly, and an increase in cardiac load during pregnancy may reveal potential problems. This type of situation requires an assessment of the degree of reflux, and moderate to severe cases may require the use of diuretics to reduce edema. It is recommended to choose a hospital with cardiac surgery support during delivery. Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a rare risk factor. When pulmonary artery pressure continues to rise, right ventricular dilation may lead to tricuspid annulus enlargement. This situation may be accompanied by serious symptoms such as cyanosis and fainting, and immediate medical attention is required. The treatment mainly focuses on controlling the primary disease, and if necessary, early termination of pregnancy may be necessary.

If tricuspid regurgitation is found during pregnancy, one should maintain a calm mindset and avoid anxiety affecting the fetus. Monitor blood pressure and pulse daily, and record changes in edema. The diet follows the principle of low salt and high protein, and is supplemented with potassium rich foods such as bananas and spinach in moderation. Avoid lifting heavy objects and sudden changes in position. Walking and exercising should be done under the guidance of a doctor. If there is persistent chest pain, paroxysmal dyspnea at night, or cough pink foam sputum, emergency treatment should be carried out immediately. Regular fetal heart monitoring and cardiac ultrasound examination, and close communication with obstetricians, can help most women with mild miscarriage to smoothly deliver vaginally.