Aortic Stenosis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Causes and Symptoms of Aortic Stenosis

Aortic stenosis is a serious and widespread heart valve disorder that occurs when the opening of the aortic valve becomes narrowed. This condition restricts the flow of blood from the heart’s left ventricle into the aorta, potentially leading to increased pressure in the left atrium and reduced circulation throughout the body. Aortic stenosis can significantly affect heart function if left untreated.

Keep reading this blog to learn more about the aortic stenosis symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment options, and more.

What are the Symptoms of Aortic Stenosis?

Aortic stenosis can remain asymptomatic for many years, but signs often appear gradually as the condition progresses. When symptoms do develop, they may include:

• Fatigue: A noticeable lack of energy or increased tiredness during physical activity.
• Chest Pain: A sensation of tightness or pressure in the chest, often triggered by physical exertion.
• Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing deeply, particularly after exercise or exertion.
• Fainting or Dizziness: A tendency to feel lightheaded or even lose consciousness, especially during physical activity.
• Heart Palpitations: A rapid or irregular heartbeat that may feel like fluttering or pounding in the chest.
• Heart Murmur: An unusual heart sound that can be detected during a physical examination using a stethoscope.

What Causes Aortic Stenosis?

The following are some of the common aortic stenosis causes that you must be aware of:

1. Congenital Heart Defects

Some individuals are born with abnormal aortic valves. While a typical aortic valve has three cusps, some people also have only one (unicuspid), two (bicuspid), or even four (quadricuspid) cusps. These structural differences can interfere with proper valve function over time, eventually leading to aortic valve narrowing.

2. Rheumatic Fever

A previous episode of rheumatic fever, often following untreated strep throat or scarlet fever, can lead to long-term heart valve damage. The condition may cause scarring on the aortic valve, which narrows the opening and creates a rough surface. Over time, this scarring can worsen and limit blood flow, potentially progressing to severe aortic stenosis.

3. Calcium Accumulation

Calcium, along with other minerals and nutrients, circulates through the bloodstream. Over time, as blood flows across the aortic valve, calcium can begin to accumulate on the valve’s surface. This buildup may cause the valve to stiffen, reducing its ability to open completely.

What are the Risk Factors of Aortic Stenosis?

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing aortic valve stenosis:

• Age: The condition is more common in individuals over 65.
• Bicuspid Aortic Valve: Having only two valve flaps instead of three can lead to valve narrowing or leakage.
• Atherosclerosis: This artery-hardening disease, caused by plaque buildup, often occurs alongside aortic stenosis.
• Diabetes: High blood sugar may speed up plaque formation, increasing the risk.
• High Cholesterol: Elevated cholesterol levels can trigger inflammation, which may contribute to valve narrowing.
• Rheumatic Fever: This infection can leave scar tissue on heart valves, affecting their function.
• End-Stage Kidney Disease: Individuals with severe kidney disease typically see a more rapid progression of aortic stenosis.

How is Aortic Stenosis Diagnosed?

To perform the diagnosis of aortic valve stenosis, the doctor may recommend several tests:

Echocardiogram

This test uses ultrasound technology to create detailed images of the heart's anatomy and performance. It is commonly performed to detect narrowing of the aortic valve.

Cardiac Catheterization

A catheter is inserted through a large artery and guided to the heart to obtain detailed images and measure pressure within the heart chambers. This helps determine the type and severity of valve disease.

X-ray

An X-ray produces visual representations of the body's bones, soft tissues, and internal organs. It can reveal an enlarged heart or changes related to aortic stenosis.

CT Scan

A Computed Tomography (CT) scan combines multiple X-ray views to provide detailed cross-sectional images of the heart and can help assess the aortic valve and surrounding areas.

MRI Scan

Magnetic resonance imaging produces high-resolution images of the heart and aorta, offering insight into the extent of aortic valve stenosis.

Electrocardiogram (EKG)

This test records the electrical activity of the heart and can show evidence of heart strain or damage linked to valve narrowing.

Exercise Stress Test

This test involves physical activity, such as walking on a treadmill, while monitoring heart function. It helps identify symptoms and functional limitations caused by aortic stenosis.

How is Aortic Stenosis Treated?

Aortic stenosis treatment depends on the presence and severity of symptoms. When symptoms appear or the disease advances, several treatment options are available:

1. Medication

For mild cases, aortic stenosis medication may help control symptoms. These include blood thinners, diuretics, and drugs used to manage high blood pressure, heart rhythm disorders, or heart failure. While medications can improve quality of life, they do not prevent the condition from worsening over time.

2. Valve Repair

In some cases, valve repair is performed through traditional surgery or a less invasive balloon valvuloplasty. A surgical repair involves opening the chest to access and correct the valve directly. Balloon valvuloplasty uses a catheter with an inflatable balloon to widen the narrowed valve. This approach may temporarily relieve symptoms.

3. Valve Replacement

When repair is not suitable, aortic valve replacement becomes the primary aortic stenosis treatment. Options include biological valves made from pig or cow tissue, mechanical valves, and bioprosthetic valves. The Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) method is also available.

TAVR involves inserting a catheter into an artery and guiding it to the heart to deploy a new valve. This technique is often recommended for individuals at increased surgical risk.

How to Prevent Aortic Stenosis?

Certain lifestyle habits and healthcare measures can help protect heart health and reduce the risk of developing the condition:

• Follow a nutritious diet that supports cardiovascular health.
• Staying physically active with a consistent exercise routine.
• Avoid consumption of tobacco and recreational drugs.
• Schedule routine medical appointments, including yearly health examinations, to keep track of your heart condition.
• Controlling long-term health issues like high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, diabetes, and kidney disease helps reduce additional stress on the heart.
• Practicing good oral hygiene and seeing a dentist twice a year to reduce the risk of infections, which can affect heart valves.
• Seeking prompt treatment for strep throat to help prevent complications like rheumatic fever, which can lead to valve damage.

By following these preventive measures, individuals can lower their risk of developing aortic stenosis and manage symptoms effectively. Recognizing the signs early is essential for determining the most effective treatment. If any symptoms of aortic stenosis occur, it is important to consult a healthcare provider promptly.

Also, it is vital to have a comprehensive health insurance plan that can provide coverage for diagnostic tests, hospitalization and other associated costs, ensuring you can avail of quality treatment without bearing the financial implications.

Contact Star Health today for further details!