Submitted by Dr T on June 7, 2011 – 7:03am
in
Question:
Hi Dr T
I recently had an echo scan that showed a bav but had no regurgitation, leak, narrowing or any of the problems that come with it.I have good bp and low resting hr of 45bpm (witch could be down to playing sports).. i had the echo done because i was suffering with anxiety, palpitations and chest pain.My questions are: 1 can the echo rule out that my chest pain is caused by my heart? 2 can an echo appear to show bav when really its a tri? 3 is exercise good for my bav? and 4 my cardio who seen my echo results said no follow up needed, surly with bav its essential? sorry for all the questions, i am really struggling with the anxiety from this and too scared to play sport.
I recently had an echo scan that showed a bav but had no regurgitation, leak, narrowing or any of the problems that come with it.I have good bp and low resting hr of 45bpm (witch could be down to playing sports).. i had the echo done because i was suffering with anxiety, palpitations and chest pain.My questions are: 1 can the echo rule out that my chest pain is caused by my heart? 2 can an echo appear to show bav when really its a tri? 3 is exercise good for my bav? and 4 my cardio who seen my echo results said no follow up needed, surly with bav its essential? sorry for all the questions, i am really struggling with the anxiety from this and too scared to play sport.
In most patients a BAV will function normally as in your case. If BAV becomes a problem it is usually because of worsening leakage causing the heart function to deteriorate (unlike yours). The only thing I would advice you is to ask your cardiologist whether you need antibiotic prophylaxis for common procedures such as dental surgery, since there may be abnormal flow pattern across your valve. The ECHO is conclusive for a diagnosis if BAV.
You can read more here:
https://www.cardiachealth.org/heart-information/valve-disease/bicuspid-
You can exercise and play sports to your heart’s content (no pun intended)!
Hope this helps,
Dr T