Risk factors

Mitral valve stenosis isn't as common as it once was because the most common cause, rheumatic fever, is rare in the United States. However, rheumatic fever remains a problem in developing nations.

Risk factors for mitral valve stenosis include untreated strep infections and a history of rheumatic fever.

Older adults are at increased risk of mitral valve stenosis. As you age, calcium deposits can build up around the mitral valve, which may lead to mitral valve stenosis.

Rarely, people who receive radiation therapy to the chest area for certain types of cancer may develop mitral valve stenosis.