Understanding Aortic Stenosis

At CardioVascular Health Clinic, your vascular and cardiovascular health is our top priority. We stay committed to providing all patients with top-quality, personalized healthcare for any vascular and cardiovascular-related condition, including aortic stenosis.

We understand that a heart-related diagnosis can feel overwhelming. Still, our experienced team offers state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and innovative procedures to address the full spectrum of your specific health condition. 

If you or a loved one is living with aortic stenosis or are simply curious about available treatment options, we can help.

Let’s discuss aortic stenosis in further detail, including what it is, its symptoms, and treatment options available to those diagnosed. 

What Is Aortic Stenosis?

Aortic stenosis is a narrowing of the aortic valve opening. It is one of the most common and severe heart valve conditions affecting thousands of people yearly.

It restricts blood flow from the left ventricle, often impacting the left atrium. As a result, the left ventricle muscle works harder to pump blood through the narrowed valve and can become enlarged and weak. 

The larger muscle takes up more room in the lower heart chamber, reducing the space necessary for adequate blood to flow to the body and possibly resulting in heart failure.

The Causes and Symptoms of Aortic Stenosis

Older adults are at the most risk of developing aortic stenosis. Age-related aortic stenosis can develop around age 60 but may not become noticeable until nearly 10 or 20 years later.

Aortic stenosis in younger individuals is generally the result of various congenital abnormalities that inhibit the proper growth and development of the heart and its valves.

Aortic stenosis does not always present symptoms until blood flow is severely restricted, and the condition can persist for several years before identification and complete diagnosis. 

When symptoms occur, they often include

• Chest pain (angina), pressure, or tightness
• Fainting
• Palpitations or a feeling of heavy, pounding, or noticeable heartbeats
• A decline in activity level or reduced ability to do everyday activities requiring mild exertion
• Heart murmur

Aortic Stenosis Treatment

An echocardiogram, or heart ultrasound, is the first step in determining the severity and progression of aortic stenosis. These test results can help identify the safest and most effective treatment options, especially if there are no apparent symptoms.

Individuals with no to mild symptoms may only require close monitoring and routine follow-ups. However, more serious cases often require valve repair or replacement surgery as the most effective aortic stenosis treatment.

Our expert team at CardioVascular Health Clinic specializes in valve diseases and disorders like aortic stenosis. We continually strive to stay on the cutting edge of treatment and prevention methods and are dedicated to providing attentive, personalized care for every patient.

It’s time to take charge of your heart and your health.

If you are concerned that you or a loved one may be suffering from aortic stenosis or is experiencing any of the common symptoms, call CardioVascular Health Clinic today at (405) 701-9880 or schedule an appointment online.