Publisher's Synopsis
The aortic valve in the heart can become narrowed due to a medical disease known as aortic stenosis. The aortic valve is one of the heart's four valves, controlling the flow of blood from the heart into the aorta. The aorta is the body's largest artery, transporting oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body. By definition, aortic stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of the aortic valve that prevents blood from flowing freely from the heart's left ventricle into the aorta.
- In most cases, calcium deposits on the valve leaflets over time cause the aortic valve to narrow and become less able to open and close normally. Symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, exhaustion, and fainting might develop because the heart has to work harder to pump blood through the constricted valve. Aortic valve stenosis can lead to life-threatening problems like cardiac failure in extreme circumstances.
Medication can be used to treat symptoms and track the progression of aortic valve stenosis. To restore normal blood flow and relieve the obstruction, surgical treatments such as aortic valve replacement or repair may be required in more severe situations. Aortic valve stenosis is a degenerative illness, and early identification and care are critical for achieving the best possible outcomes for patients.
