If you have aortic stenosis, you’re at greater risk of developing a bacterial infection of the heart valves. Aortic stenosis damages the valve leaflets, often thickening or calcifying them. That causes irregular surfaces that bacteria can adhere to and multiply. Infective endocarditis can have serious complications, including stroke or heart failure, if not treated quickly.
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What is aortic stenosis?
Aortic stenosis, or aortic valve stenosis, is a common heart disease characterized by a narrowing of the aortic valve opening. This condition restricts blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta. The heart must then work harder to pump blood to the body.
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What are the symptoms of aortic stenosis?
The signs and symptoms of aortic stenosis can vary depending on the severity of your condition. You may not notice any symptoms in the early stages of aortic stenosis. However, as the narrowing of the aortic valve increases, warning signs will likely develop. Aortic stenosis symptoms typically include:
- Chest pain or tightness, especially during physical exertion
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Irregular heartbeat or heart palpitations
- Fatigue
- Swelling in the feet and ankles
What causes aortic stenosis?
Aortic stenosis is a common valve disease that typically develops with age. Common causes of aortic stenosis include:
Calcium deposits build up on the aortic valve as we age, causing it to thicken and stiffen. This calcification can restrict the valve’s movement and lead to aortic stenosis. The disease typically develops after age 60, but symptoms may not surface until years later.
Some people are born with abnormalities in their aortic valve. Irregularities include a narrowed aortic valve or valve leaflets that don’t open all the way. One of the most common congenital defects tied to aortic stenosis is a condition called bicuspid aortic valve. In this instance, the valve has only two leaflets instead of three.
Complications from untreated strep throat can cause scarring and thickening of the aortic valve, narrowing its opening or causing it to calcify. Over time, this damage can result in aortic stenosis.
How fast does aortic stenosis progress?
The rate of progression depends on various factors, such as the severity of the aortic stenosis, its underlying cause, and other medical conditions like high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
What are the four stages of aortic stenosis?
Aortic stenosis progresses in four stages, from mild to critical. These stages are:
- Mild aortic stenosis (at risk of AS): In the earliest stage, the narrowing of the aortic valve is minimal, and most people do not experience symptoms. This stage is often detected during routine physical exams or diagnostic tests. Treatment is not yet needed.
- Moderate aortic stenosis (progressive AS): As the narrowing progresses, many people remain mostly asymptomatic, but regular monitoring is recommended. You may begin to notice symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or fatigue, especially during physical activity. Some patients may start considering valve replacement options.
- Severe aortic stenosis (asymptomatic severe): At this stage, the aortic valve has narrowed significantly, restricting blood flow from the heart. Symptoms may become more noticeable, even during rest, although some individuals might still be asymptomatic. The narrowing is severe, requiring close observation and possibly treatment.
- Critical aortic stenosis (symptomatic severe): In this final stage, the condition can become life-threatening if untreated, with symptoms such as heart failure or the risk of sudden cardiac arrest. The narrowing is severe, and even asymptomatic patients may require immediate intervention.
What are the risk factors for aortic stenosis?
Various factors increase the chances of developing aortic valve stenosis. These risks include:
- Older age
- Genetics
- Diabetes
- Kidney disease
- Radiation therapy to the chest
- Smoking
- Obesity
These risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing aortic stenosis, but not everyone experiencing these issues will develop the condition.
FAQs about aortic stenosis
Aortic stenosis can be hereditary, but it’s not only determined by genetics. The disease can also develop progressively due to age, lifestyle habits, and underlying medical conditions.
Certain hereditary factors play a part in aortic stenosis emerging, including congenital heart defects and some genetic syndromes. However, not everyone predisposed to aortic valve stenosis will develop the condition.
Stress itself isn’t a direct cause of aortic stenosis. However, chronic stress can increase your risk for various health issues, including cardiovascular disease.
If you have severe aortic stenosis, you’re at risk of developing heart complications like arrhythmias and coronary artery diseases. Those conditions increase the chances of a heart attack.
During the most critical phase of the condition, patients often experience severe chest pain, fainting, stroke, and heart failure.
