Aortic Stenosis
Know More: Aortic Stenosis
Trustworthy information, straight from the source. Education is the first step in an empowering healthcare plan. Learn more about aortic stenosis, from prevention to diagnosis and treatment.
Condition Overview
What is aortic stenosis?
Aortic stenosis represents a diseased aortic valve in which the leaflets become stiff and thickened limiting the amount of blood pumped out of the body.
Diagnosis & Treatment Options
What are the signs and symptoms of aortic stenosis?
Symptoms of severe aortic stenosis include, but may not be limited to:
- Chest Pain
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Shortness of Breath
- Irregular Heartbeat
What are some of the causes of severe aortic stenosis?
- Age
- Calcium Buildup
- Radiation Therapy
- Infection of the Heart
How is aortic stenosis diagnosed?
- Echocardiogram
- EKG
- Chest X-Ray
- Cardiac Computerized Tomography (CT) Scan
- Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Scan
Preparing for Care
How is aortic stenosis treated?
Treatment for aortic stenosis depends on the symptoms and the severity of the condition. If you have mild symptoms, you may only need regular checkups by a healthcare provider. The provider may recommend healthy lifestyle changes and medication to treat the disease or reduce the risk of complications.
You may eventually need surgery to repair or replace the aortic valve. Surgery options for aortic stenosis include:
- Balloon Valvuloplasty
- Aortic Valve Replacement
- Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)
- Aortic Valve Repair
Seek care immediately or call 911 if you have any of the following signs of a heart attack:
- Squeezing, pressure, or pain in your chest that lasts longer than five minutes or returns
- Discomfort or pain in your back, neck, jaw, stomach, or arm
- Trouble breathing
- Nausea or vomiting
- Lightheadedness or a sudden cold sweat, especially with chest pain or trouble breathing
- You are tired and cannot think clearly
- Your heart is beating faster than usual
- You are bleeding from your gums or nose
- You see blood in your urine or bowel movements
- You urinate less than usual or not at all
- You have new or increased swelling in your feet or ankles
Contact your provider or cardiologist if:
- You have trouble taking your heart medicine
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care