Understanding Aortic Stenosis
Learn about this common heart valve condition, why it matters, and the modern treatment options that can help restore your quality of life.
What is Aortic Stenosis?
Aortic stenosis (AS) is a condition where the aortic valve — the main "exit door" for blood leaving your heart — becomes narrowed and doesn't open fully. This forces your heart to work harder to pump blood through the smaller opening to the rest of your body.
The aortic valve normally has three leaflets (flaps) that open and close with each heartbeat. In aortic stenosis, these leaflets become stiff, thickened, or fused together due to calcium buildup or other causes, preventing them from opening completely.
Over time, this extra work can weaken your heart muscle, leading to serious complications including heart failure. The good news is that aortic stenosis can be treated effectively, even without open-heart surgery.
What Causes Aortic Stenosis?
Calcification (Age-Related)
The most common cause. Calcium deposits build up on the valve leaflets over decades, causing them to stiffen. Most common in people over 65.
Bicuspid Aortic Valve
Some people are born with a valve that has only two leaflets instead of three. This valve is more prone to narrowing earlier in life.
Rheumatic Fever
A complication of untreated strep throat that can damage heart valves. Less common today in developed countries.
Symptoms of Aortic Stenosis
Aortic stenosis often develops slowly, and you may not notice symptoms for years. When symptoms do appear, they typically include:
Shortness of Breath
Common early symptomEspecially during physical activity or when lying down. You may find yourself avoiding activities you used to enjoy.
Chest Pain or Tightness
May indicate progressionCalled angina, this discomfort often occurs during exertion as the heart muscle doesn't get enough blood.
Fatigue & Weakness
Common symptomFeeling unusually tired or weak, even with normal activities, as the heart struggles to pump enough blood.
Dizziness or Fainting
Serious warning signCalled syncope, this can happen during physical activity when blood flow to the brain is reduced.
Heart Palpitations
Common symptomFeeling like your heart is racing, fluttering, or pounding in your chest.
Swollen Ankles or Feet
Sign of heart failureFluid buildup (edema) can occur when the heart can't pump blood efficiently.
Important: Once symptoms appear, aortic stenosis can progress quickly. If you experience any of these symptoms, especially fainting or severe shortness of breath, seek medical attention promptly.
Stages of Aortic Stenosis
Aortic stenosis is classified by severity, which helps guide treatment decisions:
Mild Aortic Stenosis
The valve is slightly narrowed. Usually no symptoms. Monitoring is typically recommended.
Moderate Aortic Stenosis
More significant narrowing. Symptoms may begin to appear. Closer monitoring and lifestyle modifications may be needed.
Severe Aortic Stenosis
Significant narrowing that typically causes symptoms. Treatment (usually valve replacement) is usually recommended.
Critical Aortic Stenosis
Very severe narrowing with significant symptoms. Urgent treatment is typically needed.
Treatment Options
Monitoring & Medical Management
For mild to moderate aortic stenosis without symptoms, regular monitoring may be all that's needed:
- • Regular echocardiograms to track progression
- • Blood pressure management
- • Maintaining a healthy lifestyle
- • Avoiding strenuous activity if symptomatic
TAVR — Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement
A revolutionary minimally invasive option that Dr. Bleszynski specializes in:
- New valve delivered through a small incision in the leg
- No open-heart surgery or heart-lung machine needed
- Shorter hospital stay (typically 1-3 days)
- Faster recovery — days to weeks, not months
Surgical Valve Replacement (SAVR)
Traditional open-heart surgery remains an option, especially for younger patients or those with complex anatomy. The surgeon removes the diseased valve and sews in a replacement (mechanical or bioprosthetic).
Living with Aortic Stenosis
While waiting for treatment or if your condition is being monitored:
- Keep all follow-up appointments — Regular monitoring helps catch progression early
- Report new symptoms promptly — Changes in symptoms may indicate progression
- Maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle — Diet, exercise (as approved), and weight management
- Take medications as prescribed — Blood pressure and other medications are important
- Practice good dental hygiene — Infections can affect your heart valve
- Know your limitations — Your doctor will advise about activity restrictions
Did You Know?
- 📊Aortic stenosis affects about 2-5% of people over 65
- ⏰Once symptoms appear, average survival without treatment is 2-3 years
- ✨TAVR can provide immediate symptom relief in most patients
Structural Heart Specialist
Have You Been Diagnosed?
Dr. Bleszynski can evaluate your aortic stenosis and discuss whether TAVR or other treatments are right for you.
Schedule Consultation(702) 805-5678