Aortic Valve Stenosis – Symptoms, causes, types, and treatment

Aortic valve stenosis is a condition characterized by the narrowing of the aortic valve opening, which obstructs the flow of blood from the heart to the aorta and the rest of the body. This blog post delves into the symptoms, causes, types, and treatment options for aortic valve stenosis.

Symptoms of Aortic Valve Stenosis:

1. Shortness of Breath: Especially during physical activity or when lying down.
2. Chest Pain: Often felt as pressure, tightness, or a feeling of squeezing in the chest.
3. Fatigue: Feeling tired or lacking energy, even with normal activities.
4. Heart Palpitations: Sensation of rapid, fluttering, or pounding heartbeats.
5. Dizziness or Fainting: Especially during physical exertion or when standing up quickly.
6. Murmur: A doctor may detect an abnormal heart sound (heart murmur) during a physical exam.

Causes of Aortic Valve Stenosis:

1. Age-related Degeneration: The most common cause, where the valve becomes thickened and calcified over time.
2. Congenital Valve Defects: Malformation of the valve present at birth can lead to stenosis later in life.
3. Rheumatic Fever: A bacterial infection that can damage heart valves.
4. Calcium Buildup: Calcium deposits on the valve can restrict its movement.
5. Other Heart Conditions: Like a bicuspid aortic valve or previous heart surgeries.

Types of Aortic Valve Stenosis:

1. Calcific Aortic Stenosis: Caused by calcium buildup on the valve leaflets.
2. Congenital Aortic Stenosis: Present from birth due to a malformed valve.
3. Rheumatic Aortic Stenosis: Resulting from damage caused by rheumatic fever.
4. Degenerative Aortic Stenosis: Age-related thickening and hardening of the valve.

Treatment Options for Aortic Valve Stenosis:

1. Medication: To manage symptoms and reduce complications.
2. Valvuloplasty: A procedure to widen the valve using a balloon.
3. Surgical Valve Replacement: Either traditional open-heart surgery or minimally invasive procedures.
4. Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR): A minimally invasive procedure suitable for certain patients.

Conclusion:

Aortic valve stenosis is a serious condition that can lead to heart failure if left untreated. Recognizing the symptoms and seeking medical attention promptly is crucial for effective management. Treatment options vary based on the severity of the stenosis and the patient’s overall health, with a focus on improving symptoms, preventing complications, and enhancing quality of life.

Also read: Ankylosing Spondylitis – Symptoms, causes, types, and treatment