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Silent Heart Threat: Aortic Stenosis Risks
9 Dec
Summary
- Aortic stenosis narrows the valve, blocking blood flow and potentially weakening the heart.
- Calcification due to aging is a common cause, stiffening valve leaflets.
- Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is the primary diagnostic tool for assessing severity.
Aortic stenosis is a critical condition where the aortic valve narrows, restricting blood flow from the heart to the aorta and the rest of the body. This can cause the heart muscle to weaken over time, potentially leading to heart failure if left untreated.
As individuals age, calcification of the heart valves is a frequent cause of aortic stenosis. Calcium deposits harden the valve leaflets, impeding their ability to open completely. Symptoms such as breathlessness, chest pain, or fainting signal a serious progression and increase the risk of heart failure.
Diagnosing aortic stenosis typically involves imaging tests, with transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) being the most effective initial assessment tool. Other tests like ECGs and chest X-rays further evaluate heart health. For severe cases, Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) offers a less invasive alternative to open-heart surgery, enabling quicker recovery and improved quality of life.
