There is almost never just one single way to treat a given heart problem. Before you make a decision, make sure your physician explains to you these options. What should you ask to find out ? Let us start with simple questions.

First, is treatment needed at all? Some lesions are so minor that they do not interfer with normal life activities.

Second, if treatment is called for, is it medical treatment or surgical treatment? Medical treatment is the use of drugs to support the pumping action of the heart muscle or to stabilize blood pressure. Inquire about the possible side effects of these drugs. You should be aware that physicians differ in their "aggressiveness" of treatment. Some doctors have a more relaxed approach, others feel they should do everything that can be done. Both approaches have their merits, neither one is "wrong". It is a matter of individual preference, the doctors' as well as yours.