Tricuspid Regurgitation: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Tricuspid Regurgitation?
A cardiologist, a doctor who treats heart problems, usually treats tricuspid regurgitation. A heart surgeon may repair or replace the valve when surgery is needed. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is tricuspid regurgitation?
Blood moving between heart chambers must pass through a heart valve, a flap that opens and closes. Valves close to keep blood from flowing backward. The tricuspid valve sits between the right lower heart chamber, the right ventricle, and the right upper chamber, the right atrium. Tricuspid regurgitation means this valve does not close tight enough. Blood then flows backward into the right atrium when the right ventricle squeezes.
Symptoms
Mild tricuspid regurgitation may not cause any symptoms. Heart failure symptoms may occur. Heart failure means the heart cannot pump as well as it should. Symptoms can include:
- Active pulsing in the neck veins.
- Less urine than usual.
- Tiredness and weakness.
- General swelling.
- Swelling of the belly.
- Swelling of the feet and ankles.
Causes and who gets it
A larger right ventricle is the most common cause. Any condition that puts extra strain on that chamber can make it grow. Examples include:
- High blood pressure in the lung arteries, called pulmonary hypertension, which can come from a lung problem such as COPD or a clot that has traveled to the lungs.
- Other heart problems, such as poor squeezing of the left side of the heart.
- A problem with how another heart valve opens or closes.
Infections can also cause or worsen it, such as rheumatic fever or an infection of the tricuspid valve that damages it. Less common causes include a heart defect present at birth called Ebstein anomaly. Carcinoid tumors, which release a hormone that damages the valve, are another less common cause. So are Marfan syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and radiation therapy. Past use of the diet pill Fen-Phen is also a less common cause. That drug was taken off the market in 1997.
How doctors diagnose it
A doctor listens to your heart with a stethoscope, which may reveal a murmur or other unusual sounds. The exam may also show swelling of the liver and spleen. An electrocardiogram (ECG) records the heart's electrical activity. An echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the heart. Either may show that the right side of the heart is larger. Doppler echocardiography or right-sided cardiac catheterization may be used to measure blood pressure inside the heart and lungs. A CT scan or MRI of the chest may also show these changes.
Treatment
Treatment may not be needed if there are few or no symptoms. Medicines called diuretics help the body remove extra fluid and can ease swelling and other heart failure symptoms. Treating a related problem, such as high blood pressure in the lung arteries, may correct the valve problem. Some people may be able to have surgery to repair or replace the tricuspid valve, most often as part of another procedure. Catheter-based procedures for the tricuspid valve are in development. Surgical valve repair or replacement most often provides a cure in people who need it. The outlook is poor for people who have severe symptoms that cannot be corrected.
When to see a doctor
Contact your provider if you have symptoms of tricuspid regurgitation. You may need to go to the hospital to diagnose and treat severe symptoms. Heart valve problems that are not treated promptly can lead to heart rhythm problems, infection, high blood pressure in the lungs, heart failure, or cardiac arrest. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have chest pain lasting two minutes or more, trouble breathing, fainting, or a sudden change in mental state.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either can listen to your heart, order heart tests, and help follow your symptoms over time.
Common questions
What causes tricuspid regurgitation?
The most common cause is a larger right ventricle. Extra strain on that chamber, such as high blood pressure in the lung arteries, can make it grow.
Does tricuspid regurgitation always cause symptoms?
No, mild tricuspid regurgitation may not cause any symptoms. Treatment may not be needed if there are few or no symptoms.
Can tricuspid regurgitation be treated?
Yes, doctors can treat it in several ways. Surgery can repair or replace the valve for some people. Surgical valve repair or replacement most often provides a cure in people who need it.
How do doctors find tricuspid regurgitation?
Doctors find it with a physical exam and heart tests. An electrocardiogram or echocardiogram may show that the right side of the heart is larger.
Can tricuspid regurgitation be prevented?
Yes, you can lower your risk by promptly treating the disorders that can lead to heart valve disease. Treating strep infections promptly helps prevent rheumatic fever. Tell your provider and dentist if you have a history of heart valve disease.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Tricuspid Regurgitation
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute - Heart Valve Diseases
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
