Aortic valve stenosis is a common heart valve disorder characterized by obstructing blood flow from the left ventricle into the aorta due to a narrowing or constriction of the aortic valve opening. This blog post discusses the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention measures of aortic valve stenosis.
Aortic valve stenosis can result from a variety of factors that affect the valve's structure or function. Common causes include:
Aortic valve stenosis is most commonly caused by degenerative calcification of the valve leaflets over time, resulting in narrowing of the valve opening.
Some individuals are born with congenital heart defects, such as bicuspid aortic valves (two leaflets instead of three), which can lead to stenosis later in life.
An inflammatory condition caused by untreated streptococcal infections that can damage the heart valves and cause stenosis.
As a result of prior radiation therapy to the chest area, which is often used to treat cancer, the heart valves can be damaged and stenosis can occur.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or systemic hypertension can increase the workload on the heart and contribute to aortic valve stenosis.
As aortic valve stenosis progresses, individuals may experience symptoms such as:
Pain in the chest, especially during physical activity or exertion (angina)
A feeling of shortness of breath, particularly when exerting oneself or lying flat (dyspnea)
Fatigue or weakness, especially during physical activity
With exertion or sudden changes in position, you may feel faint or lightheaded
During a physical examination, a heart murmur can be heard as a harsh or rasping sound
Palpitations or irregular heartbeat
Heart failure and sudden cardiac death can be complications of aortic valve stenosis in severe cases.
Aortic valve stenosis is diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation, medical history, and diagnostic tests.
During a physical examination, the healthcare provider may listen for heart murmurs and check for signs of heart failure, such as peripheral edema or elevated jugular venous pressure.
Using sound waves, an echocardiogram creates images of the heart structures and assesses valve function, size, and stenosis severity.
An electrocardiogram records the electrical activity of the heart and may detect arrhythmias or enlarged hearts.
Catheterization of the heart is a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube (catheter) is inserted into a blood vessel and guided to the heart so that pressure gradients across the aortic valve can be measured.
Aortic valve stenosis is treated according to the severity of symptoms, the degree of valve narrowing, and an individual's overall health. Common treatment options include:
To manage symptoms, reduce blood pressure, and improve heart function, medications such as diuretics, ACE inhibitors, or beta-blockers may be prescribed.
It may be necessary to replace the damaged valve with a mechanical or bioprosthetic valve in severe cases of aortic valve stenosis.
Replacement of the native aortic valve with a replacement valve through a catheter is referred to as transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).
Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments with a cardiologist are important to assess valve function, monitor symptoms, and adjust treatment as needed.
It may not be possible to prevent all cases of aortic valve stenosis, but certain lifestyle modifications and preventive measures can reduce the risk.
Keeping a healthy weight, eating a heart-healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking can help reduce the risk of heart disease and valve dysfunction.
Managing underlying medical conditions: Controlling hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol can prevent cardiovascular complications and reduce the risk of valve disease.
When experiencing symptoms suggestive of heart valve disease, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations, seek medical attention immediately.
As a consequence, aortic valve stenosis is a condition in which the opening of the aortic valve narrows or constricts, preventing blood from flowing from the left ventricle of the heart. The exact cause of the condition may vary, but timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment are necessary to manage symptoms, prevent complications, and improve outcomes. You should consult a healthcare professional if you experience symptoms suggestive of aortic valve stenosis or have concerns about your heart health.
