Seek medical attention if experiencing:

• Severe shortness of breath or chest pain.
• Symptoms of heart failure (swelling in legs, persistent fatigue).
• Rapid, irregular heartbeats.
• Fainting or dizziness These could indicate severe mitral valve disease that may require surgical intervention.

 Do's:

• Follow-up care: Regular visits to your cardiologist to monitor heart function and valve performance.
• Take medications: Adhere to prescribed blood thinners (for mechanical valves) or other drugs.
• Exercise moderately: Engage in cardiac rehabilitation and stay active under medical guidance.
• Maintain a healthy diet: Eat heart-healthy foods to manage weight and reduce strain on the heart.
• Monitor symptoms: Report any new symptoms like shortness of breath or irregular heartbeats immediately.

 Don'ts:

• Avoid smoking: Smoking can worsen heart health.
• Limit alcohol: Excessive alcohol can increase the risk of complications.
• Skip medications: Never stop taking prescribed medications without consulting your doctor.
• Avoid excessive physical exertion: Engage in physical activities only after discussing with your cardiologist.
• Ignore signs of infection: Report signs of infection, as these can cause complications with a prosthetic valve.