Overview
The aortic valve controls blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. In aortic stenosis it becomes stiff and narrow, so the heart has to work harder. Severe aortic stenosis needs valve treatment.
Symptoms
- Chest pain or tightness on exertion
- Shortness of breath, especially with activity
- Dizziness or fainting
- Tiredness and reduced ability to exercise
- A heart murmur heard by a doctor
Causes and risk factors
The most common cause is age-related calcium build-up on the valve. Other causes include a valve with two leaflets instead of three (bicuspid valve) and past rheumatic fever.
Diagnosis
An echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) confirms the diagnosis and shows how severe it is. ECG, CT scan or cardiac catheterisation may also be used.
Treatment
Mild cases are monitored regularly. Severe or symptomatic aortic stenosis is treated by replacing the valve with open-heart surgery or a less invasive transcatheter procedure (TAVI).
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you have chest pain, breathlessness or fainting, especially during activity. People with known aortic stenosis need regular heart check-ups.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
