Aortic Stenosis?
Aortic Stenosis occurs when the aortic valve becomes narrowed and cannot open fully. This restricts blood flow from the heart and forces the heart to work harder.
Key Message
Aortic Stenosis is one of the most common heart valve diseases. Early diagnosis and timely valve replacement can significantly improve quality of life and survival.
Why is it Dangerous?
If left untreated, severe aortic stenosis can lead to:
- Heart failure
- Chest pain (angina)
- Fainting (syncope)
- Irregular heart rhythms
- Sudden cardiac death
Who is at Risk?
- Older adults due to age-related valve calcification
- People with a bicuspid aortic valve
- Individuals with a history of rheumatic heart disease
- Those with congenital valve abnormalities
Common Symptoms
Many people have no symptoms in the early stages.
As the condition progresses, symptoms may include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain or pressure
- Dizziness or fainting
- Fatigue
- Reduced exercise tolerance
- Palpitations
Can it be Treated?
YES
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and may include:
- Regular monitoring with echocardiograms
- Medications to manage symptoms
- Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement (SAVR)
- Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR/TAVI)
India records approximately 29 lakh (2.9 million) cardiovascular disease (CVD) deaths per year, including heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, and other heart and blood vessel diseases.