Aortic valve stenoses is a medical condition that affects the heart's aortic valve, causing it to narrow and restrict blood flow. The word "stenoses" (IPA: stɛˈnoʊsɪz) is plural of "stenosis" (IPA: stɛˈnoʊsɪs), which signifies narrowing or constriction. "Aortic" (IPA: eɪˈɔr.tɪk) refers to the aorta, the body's largest artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. The spelling of the entire phrase flows naturally when broken down phonetically (eɪˈɔr.tɪk ˈvælv stɛˈnoʊsɪz).
Aortic valve stenosis refers to a medical condition characterized by the narrowing of the aortic valve opening, which restricts the blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta. The aortic valve, located between the left ventricle and the aorta, normally allows the blood to flow in one direction, from the left ventricle to the aorta, facilitating oxygenated blood supply to the rest of the body.
When the aortic valve becomes narrow and rigid, it obstructs the blood flow, causing the heart to work harder to pump blood through the narrowed valve. Aortic valve stenosis can be caused by various factors, such as congenital defects, degeneration of the valve with age, or scarring due to rheumatic fever. Symptoms of aortic valve stenosis may include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, and fainting.
Treatment for aortic valve stenosis depends on the severity of the condition and the presence of symptoms. Mild cases may be managed with regular monitoring and lifestyle modifications, while severe cases often require surgical intervention, such as valve repair or replacement. The goal of treatment is to relieve the obstruction and improve blood flow, thus reducing symptoms and enhancing overall heart function. Regular follow-up visits with a cardiologist are essential to monitor the progression and manage aortic valve stenosis effectively.