Stenosis. It is a term used to describe the narrowing of some pathways. Aortic stenosis is a diagnosis that may sound frightening due to its relation to the blood flow coming from the heart. As you can imagine, the aortic valve is integral to a fully-operational heart. The presence of aortic stenosis means that function is inhibited. As a result of the decreased function, the heart has to work harder to get blood where it needs to be, and this may not happen. Blood flow throughout the body may decrease.
While it is possible for a young person to experience the symptoms of aortic stenosis (with or without regurgitation) due to a bicuspid aortic valve, which is a congenital defect, a large majority of patients with this condition developed it as they aged. The reason often being scarring to the aortic valve or calcium buildup that inhibits the sufficient circulation of blood through the valve.
We don’t look for signs of aortic stenosis first. Typically, one or more of the following prompt a visit to a family physician for a heart workup:
More dramatic symptoms of aortic stenosis include blood clots in the brain or another area of the body and chronic heart failure. Unfortunately, the onset of symptoms does not occur until blood flow has been significantly challenged.
Aortic stenosis can be treated. It can be a serious problem but is also one of the common heart conditions to affect older individuals. The experienced physicians at Premier Cardiology Consultants offer treatment options to the patient in the Richmond Hill, Lake Success, and Forest Hills areas. Valve repairs or replacement is recommended based on the severity of symptoms and other important factors.
We are happy to speak with you about your heart-health concerns and the treatment options that we offer to our patients. Schedule a consultation in an office near you by calling 516-437-5600.
