Aortic Stenosis
Aortic stenosis is a narrowing of the aortic valve. It is caused by a build-up of calcium on the valve as we age. Aortic stenosis is most common in older people but if you have two door aortic valve instead of the usual three door valve, this process is often faster and presents in younger people. When the aortic valve hardens and narrows, it restricts the flow of blood out of the heart.
Patient may present in the following ways.
- Chest pain or breathlessness on exertion as the heart is not managing to support his level of activity.
- Fainting episode as heart doesn’t manage to support the increased activity.
- Heart failure as heart can’t cope with the increased workload against the narrowed valve.
These symptoms are similar to coronary heart disease symptoms.
Diagnosis and treatment
Aortic stenosis is usually diagnosed with an echocardiogram. Echocardiogram is similar to what I call gel test similar to scanning one’s tummy during pregnancy, but it is done on the chest. It is generally painless; however, some patients feel mild discomfort during the process. The images show the size of your heart and how well it pumps, and whether the heart valves are working properly.
It is not possible to reverse aortic stenosis through lifestyle changes or medications.
Surveillance
The valve may not be tight enough requiring intervention. Decision made to intervene is based on patient’s symptoms, how tight the valve and how well the heart is functioning.