What is this overlooked heart condition being discussed here? Dr Anshul Kumar Gupta, consultant in interventional cardiology at Manipal Hospital, Jaipur, shed light on the condition, identifying it as mitral stenosis. But what is mitral stenosis, and why can breathlessness be one of its symptoms? This clarity will help in deassociation.

Dr Gupta described, “Mitral stenosis happens when the mitral valve inside the heart gets narrowed or blocked. A narrow mitral valve makes it harder for blood to flow from the left atrium (upper chamber) to the left ventricle (lower chamber) on the left side of the heart. This is because the valve can’t open as much as it should to let blood go through. And getting blood to the left ventricle is important as it sends oxygen-rich blood to all the body’s cells.”

Why does this particular valve get affected? Dr Gupta elaborated that mitral stenosis may develop due to damage caused by rheumatic fever, age-related changes, or calcium. In some cases, it may also be congenital.

Why does this particular valve get affected? Dr Gupta explained that mitral stenosis may develop due to damage caused by rheumatic fever, age-related changes or calcium buildup. In some cases, it may also be congenital. The condition typically develops gradually rather than occurring suddenly, and he cautioned that its symptoms may be very subtle in the early stages.

So, it is best not to assume that breathlessness is caused by anaemia and try to manage it solely by eating foods aimed at addressing nutritional deficiencies. Although anaemia is a common cause of breathlessness, persistent or unusual symptoms should not be dismissed, as they may mean an underlying heart condition.

More about the expert: Dr Anshul Kumar Gupta has an experience of 14 years in this field.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.