Stenosis
The valve cannot fully open and close as it should.
What is aortic stenosis?
The heart’s aortic valve has three thin flaps, which open and close to allow blood flow from the heart to the entire body.7
With aortic stenosis, this valve does not function properly.7
Sometimes the leaflets of the aortic valve become stiff, which causes a narrowing of the aortic valve opening. This means the valve cannot fully open and close like it should. As the opening becomes smaller, it makes it harder for the heart to pump blood, which can affect your health.2
Insufficient blood reaching the body causes breathlessness, fatigue and dizziness, among other symptoms.
Normal
The valve fully opens and closes.
Slide to the left to see the difference between a normal valve and one with stenosis
Other common symptoms are:3,4
Fluttering heartbeat
Having hard, fast or irregular beats.
Swollen ankles or feet
Abnormal fluid accumulation.
Sleeping difficulty
Struggling to fall asleep, or having trouble staying asleep.
Can aortic stenosis get worse over time?
Yes, aortic stenosis is a progressive disease and typically occurs in 3 stages.
It starts at a mild stage, progresses to moderate and subsequently, severe stages.6 The stage of aortic stenosis depends on how damaged your aortic valve is.
Mild
Moderate
Severe
Unless treated, only 1 in 2 people with severe aortic stenosis will survive for 2 years.5
Do not delay getting your heart checked. Visit your doctor today.
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