What are Problems of the Aortic Valve?
Aortic valve disorders are conditions that affect the aortic valve, which is a heart valve that is located between the left ventricle and the aorta. The aortic valve controls the flow of blood from the left ventricle into the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body.
There are several types of aortic valve disorders, including:
Aortic stenosis: This is a condition in which the aortic valve becomes narrowed, reducing the flow of blood from the left ventricle into the aorta.
Aortic regurgitation (also known as aortic insufficiency): This is a condition in which the aortic valve does not close properly, causing blood to flow back into the left ventricle when the left ventricle contracts.
Aortic valve disorders can be caused by a variety of factors, including congenital heart defects, heart valve infection, and damage to the heart muscle from a heart attack. They can also be caused by the wearing down of the valve with age.
Symptoms of aortic valve disorders may include shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, and an irregular heartbeat. The condition can be diagnosed using a physical exam, electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, and other tests.
Treatment for aortic valve disorders may include medications to improve heart function and reduce fluid buildup, as well as lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and exercise program. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace the aortic valve. It is important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing symptoms that may be caused by an aortic valve disorder.