Tricuspid valve regurgitation (leakage)

Definition:

Tricuspid regurgitation is a disorder in which the heart’s tricuspid valve does not close properly, causing blood to flow backward (leak) into the right upper heart chamber (atrium) when the right lower heart chamber (ventricle) contracts.

Prevention:

  • Prompt treatment of disorders that can cause valve disease reduces your risk of tricuspid regurgitation. Treat strep infections promptly to prevent rheumatic fever.
  • Any invasive procedure, including dental work and cleaning, can introduce bacteria into your bloodstream. The bacteria can infect a damaged mitral valve, causing endocarditis. Always tell your health care provider and dentist if you have a history of heart valve disease or congenital heart disease before treatment. Taking antibiotics before dental or other invasive procedures may decrease your risk of endocarditis.

Treatment:

  • Treatment may not be needed if there are few or no symptoms. Hospitalization may be required for diagnosis and treatment of severe symptoms.
  • Swelling may be managed by medications (diuretics) that help remove fluids from the body.