Aortic valve stenosis
Aortic valve stenosis Definition
Aortic valve stenosis (AS) is a ?valvular? heart disease caused by the incomplete opening of the aortic valve. Normally, the aortic valves control the direction of blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta. When the aortic valve is in good working condition, it does not obstruct the flow of blood. Aortic valve stenosis is a common disorder, affecting about 2% of individuals over 65 years old, 3% of patients over 75 and 4% of people over 85 years old. Since the global population is aging, the prevalence of Aortic valve stenosis is increasing.
Aortic valve stenosis Symptoms and Signs
When aortic valve stenosis is symptomatic, patients may experience angina, dizziness, syncope (fainting spells) and congestive heart failure. If aortic valve is not replaced, congestive heart failure accounts to a two-year mortality rate of 50%, syncope accounts for a three-year mortality rate of 50% and angina has a five-year mortality rate of 50%. Aortic valve stenosis is associated with colon angiodysplasia. This condition also causes Von Willebrand disease.
Aortic valve stenosis Treatment
Aortic valve stenosis can be treated with various medications to control symptoms. However, surgery is the primary cure for this condition. An aortic valve replacement is done if medications do not control symptoms. For infants and children, balloon valvuloplasty is an effective method to cure Aortic valve stenosis.