What is tricuspid insufficiency?
A person with tricuspid insufficiency has a leaky tricuspid valve in the heart. When the tricuspid valve opens, blood flows from the right atrium, into the right ventricle. A closed tricuspid valve prevents the backflow of blood from the right ventricle, into the right atrium. Tricuspid insufficiency results when the tricuspid valve does not completely close, due to scarring, thickening, or malformation of the valve. The leaking valve places stress on the heart. Severe tricuspid insufficiency can lead to congestive heart failure. About 9 out of 1,000 people in the US have tricuspid insufficiency.

What are the symptoms of tricuspid insufficiency?
Symptoms of tricuspid insufficiency may include palpitations, fatigue, shortness of breath, and poor appetite. Symptoms of worsening tricuspid insufficiency include leg swelling, foot swelling (bilateral), arm swelling (bilateral), and abdominal swelling.

How does the doctor treat tricuspid insufficiency?
Mild tricuspid insufficiency may not require treatment. Treatment for moderate to severe tricuspid insufficiency may include medications for heart failure, blood thinner medication, and tricuspid valve replacement.