WHAT IS AORTIC VALVE STENOSIS?
Aortic stenosis (AS) is a valvular heart disease and is characterized by a narrowing of the aortic valve, due to a buildup of calcium, that prevents it from properly opening and closing. This makes your heart work harder to pump blood to the rest of your body. A diseased valve affects your health and limits your daily activities. Left untreated, severe aortic stenosis can lead to heart failure or even sudden death.
Healthy Aortic Valves
The thin leaflets open and close properly
DISEASED (STENOTIC) VALVES
The leaflets become stiff and thickened.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF AORTIC VALVE STENOSIS?
Some causes of severe aortic stenosis include:
- Age
- Calcium buildup
- Radiation therapy
- Infection of the heart
- Failing aortic surgical valve
DISCLAIMER
The content of this document is meant for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment in any manner.
Nothing herein should be construed as a promotion or solicitation for an indication for any product which is not authorized by the laws and regulations of your country of residence. Responses to a treatment may vary from patient to patient.
Always consult your physician if you have any questions or concerns about your health.