Aortic Stenosis is a medical condition in which the aortic valve of the heart narrows, leading to restricted blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body.

This disease is quite common, particularly in elderly people, and can lead to serious complications if left untreated. In this article, we will throw light on what causes aortic stenosis, how it can be diagnosed, the potential implications of the disease, and its treatment options.

Causes of Aortic Stenosis

The most common cause of aortic stenosis is the buildup of calcium deposits on the valve, as people grow older. This buildup can cause the valve’s structure to harden, which in turn reduces its ability to open and close properly.

As a result, the heart has to work harder to pump blood, leading to a host of problems.

Other causes for aortic stenosis include congenital birth defects which affect the structure of the valve, rheumatic fever and endocarditis (infection of the heart valve).

Health conditions such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure can also increase the likelihood of aortic stenosis.

Symptoms of Aortic Stenosis

Aortic stenosis tends to develop gradually over years. Symptoms in the early stages can be mild or almost nonexistent, but as the condition progresses, symptoms become more severe. Some common symptoms of aortic stenosis include:.

Dizziness or lightheadedness
Fainting
Chest pain
Shortness of breath, particularly after exercising or exerting oneself
Heart palpitations

Diagnosing Aortic Stenosis

Aortic stenosis can be diagnosed through a few means. One common diagnostic test is an echocardiogram, which uses ultrasound to produce an image of your heart and its valves.

Doctors can use the images to examine the aortic valve and pinpoint any abnormalities. Other types of diagnostic tests include electrocardiograms (ECGs), chest x-rays and cardiac catheterizations.

Implications of Aortic Stenosis

When left untreated, aortic stenosis can lead to a host of complications, such as:.

Heart failure
Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat)
Infections in the heart valve
Cardiac arrest (sudden loss of heart function)

It’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you suspect you may be suffering from aortic stenosis.

Treatment Options for Aortic Stenosis

The severity of aortic stenosis determines its treatment options. For mild to moderate cases, doctors often recommend symptoms management, monitoring and exercise restrictions.

For severe cases, treatment typically involves valve replacement surgery, considering the now-available minimally invasive procedures instead of an open-heart surgery. A variety of surgical techniques can be used, depending on the patient and the circumstances.

Conclusion

Aortic stenosis is a serious medical condition that should be taken seriously. Its symptoms can be subtle in the beginning, but can lead to severe complications if left untreated.

If you suspect that you’re experiencing symptoms of aortic stenosis, make an appointment for an assessment with a cardiovascular specialist or a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis confirmed by proper testing modalities can lead to better treatment outcomes, helping restore a higher quality of life.