Aortic Stenosis

What is aortic stenosis?

Aortic stenosis occurs in two percent of people over 65, and the risk of aortic stenosis increases as we age. Aortic stenosis is a progressive narrowing of the valve that controls blood flow to the heart. When the body does not get enough blood, the heart has to work harder to make up for it. If the valve problem is not resolved, it can lead to abnormal heartbeats, heart failure and permanent damage to the heart. Aortic stenosis can be life threatening.

What are symptoms of aortic stenosis?

Symptoms may not be noticeable until the narrowing of the valve is severe. Symptoms can include chest pain or tightness, feeling faint, shortness of breath, fatigue, heart palpitations and heart murmur.

Patients suffering with severe aortic stenosis often develop debilitating symptoms that can restrict normal day-to-day activities, such as walking or climbing stairs. Other than valve repair or replacement including TAVR, there currently are no long-term treatment options to prevent or delay the progression of the disease.