Aortic valve stenosis

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Definition Symptoms Causes Risk factors When to seek medical advice

Tests and diagnosis Complications Treatments and drugs Prevention

Definition

Aortic valve stenosis — or aortic stenosis — is a condition in which the heart's aortic valve narrows. This narrowing prevents the valve from opening fully, obstructing blood flow from your heart into your aorta and onward to the rest of your body. This condition usually results in an abnormal heart sound (heart murmur) that your doctor can hear with a stethoscope.

When your aortic valve is obstructed, your heart needs to work harder to pump blood to your body. Eventually, your heart muscle becomes thicker because it has to pump harder due to the obstruction. In addition, your heart can pump only a limited amount of blood - and eventually can't provide the increase in blood flow you need for activities, such as exercise.

Several factors, including aging, can damage the aortic valve and lead to aortic valve stenosis. Some babies are born with a defective aortic valve.

If you have severe aortic valve stenosis, you may need surgery to replace the valve. Left untreated, aortic valve stenosis can lead to serious heart problems.

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Symptoms