Aortic valve disease affects the valve between the heart’s left ventricle and the aorta, the main artery that carries blood to the rest of the body. If the valve doesn’t work properly, it can reduce blood flow or cause blood to leak back into the heart. This puts extra strain on the heart and can lead to serious problems over time.

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The two main types are aortic stenosis (narrowed valve) and aortic regurgitation (leaky valve).

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What are the symptoms of Aortic Valve Disease?

 

Many people have no symptoms in the early stages. As the condition worsens, symptoms can appear and may include:

• Chest pain or tightness, especially during activity

• Shortness of breath

• Fatigue

• Dizziness or fainting

• Palpitations (irregular heartbeat)

• Swelling in the ankles or feet

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Symptoms often get worse over time as the valve becomes more damaged.

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What increases my risk of Aortic Valve Disease?

 

Risk factors include:

• Being over 65

• History of rheumatic fever or endocarditis

• High blood pressure

• High cholesterol

• Congenital valve abnormalities

• Smoking

• Long-term kidney disease

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How is Myocarditis Aortic Valve Disease diagnosed?

 

Your Cardiologist will listen to your heart and may hear a murmur, which could suggest valve disease.

Tests can include:

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• Echocardiogram – the main test to assess valve structure and function

• Electrocardiogram (ECG) – to check heart rhythm

• Chest X-ray – to see if the heart is enlarged

• Cardiac MRI – for detailed images of the heart

• Cardiac catheterisation – in some cases, to measure pressure inside the heart

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What is the treatment for Aortic Valve Disease?

 

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the valve problem.

Options include:

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• Monitoring – mild cases may just need regular scans

• Medication, to manage symptoms or related conditions such as high blood pressure or heart failure

• Surgery or procedures, such as:

  • Aortic valve replacement – with a mechanical or tissue valve

  • TAVI (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation) – a less invasive procedure for some patients

  • Balloon valvuloplasty – to widen the valve, usually for temporary relief or in children

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Your doctor will discuss the best option based on your symptoms and general health.

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More information:

To learn more, visit the NHS Aortic Valve Disease page or the British Heart Foundation.