Condition Basics
What is aortic valve stenosis?
Aortic valve stenosis is a narrowing of the aortic valve. The aortic valve allows blood to flow from the heart's lower left chamber (ventricle) into the aorta and to the body. Stenosis prevents the valve from opening properly, forcing the heart to work harder to pump blood through the valve. This causes pressure to build up in the left ventricle and thickens the heart muscle.
Your heart can make up for aortic valve stenosis and the extra pressure for a long time. But at some point, it may not be able to keep up the extra effort of pumping blood through the narrowed valve. This can lead to heart failure.
What causes it?
Aortic valve stenosis can be caused by calcium buildup on the valve. It can also be caused by a heart defect that you were born with, such as a bicuspid aortic valve. It may also be caused by rheumatic fever, which can damage the valve.
What are the symptoms?
Aortic valve stenosis takes a long time to develop, and you may not have symptoms for many years. But as the problem gets worse, you may have symptoms such as chest pain or pressure, dizziness, or shortness of breath. Symptoms are often brought on by exercise, when the heart has to work harder.
How is it diagnosed?
Most people find out they have aortic valve stenosis when their doctor hears a heart murmur during a physical exam. To be sure of the diagnosis, your doctor may want you to have an echocardiogram. You may have other tests to help your doctor judge how well your heart is working.
How is aortic valve stenosis treated?
Your doctor will check your heart regularly. Your doctor will recommend a heart-healthy lifestyle. You may take medicine that lowers blood pressure or cholesterol. You may choose to have surgery or a procedure to replace the valve. Some people have a procedure to widen the valve.
