What is Aortic Stenosis?

Aortic stenosis is one of the most common and serious heart valve diseases, particularly among older adults. It occurs when the aortic valve narrows, restricting blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta, which may also impact the pressure in the left atrium. While some cases are due to a congenital defect known as a bicuspid aortic valve, aortic stenosis more frequently develops as part of the aging process. Over time, the valve thickens and hardens, leading to reduced blood flow and oxygenation throughout the body.

Symptoms of Aortic Stenosis

Aortic stenosis can be asymptomatic in its early stages, but as the condition worsens, several symptoms may develop, including:

• Chest Pain: Often triggered by physical activity, this pain occurs as the heart works harder to pump blood through the narrowed valve.
  
• Shortness of Breath: Initially noticeable during exercise, this can progress to occur even at rest.
  
• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Caused by reduced blood flow, particularly during physical exertion.
  
• Fainting (Syncope): A severe consequence of reduced blood flow, leading to temporary loss of consciousness.
  
• Fatigue: A feeling of extreme tiredness, especially during physical activities.
  
• Swollen Ankles or Feet: Resulting from poor circulation, this swelling often appears after periods of inactivity or sleep.
  
• Difficulty Sleeping: Some patients may need to sleep sitting up to breathe comfortably.
  
• Decreased Activity Levels: A noticeable decline in the ability to perform normal daily activities.
  
• Feeling Older Than Your Age: A general sense of physical decline that may be more pronounced than expected.
  

In severe cases, aortic stenosis can lead to life-threatening complications such as heart failure, where the heart is no longer able to pump blood efficiently.

Prevalence

Aortic stenosis is particularly prevalent in individuals aged 75 and older, with studies showing that more than one in eight people in this age group have moderate to severe aortic stenosis. This condition is increasingly recognised as a significant public health concern, especially as the global population continues to age.

Symptom Tracking

If a patient is not showing any symptoms of aortic valve disease, or their symptoms are mild, the most common form of action is regular checkups. In mild cases, these checks are usually yearly, and will likely increase as the condition deteriorates.

Patients receiving annual checkups should use the Heart Valve Voice app to monitor their symptoms. This will provide them and their clinician with a journal documenting how their symptoms are progressing.

Treatment

The most common treatment for aortic valve disease is Surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) or Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI). Patients should consult with their clinician to discuss what treatment option is best for them.

Click here to find out more about Treatment