Today is February 22 which is Heart Valve Disease Awareness Day, and recognized every during American Heart Month.
During this day, we aim to raise awareness about heart valve disease. This annual day focuses on educating people about the risk factors, symptoms, detection, and treatment of heart valve disease to reduce its burden. More than 11 million Americans have heart valve disease, yet 3 out of 4 Americans know little to nothing about it .
Let's focus on the aortic valve. Aortic valve disease is a group of conditions that affect your aortic valve, which is responsible for managing blood flow out of your heart to the rest of your body. There are two main types of aortic valve disease:
1. Aortic Valve Stenosis (Aortic Stenosis): In this condition, the aortic valve becomes narrowed, preventing it from opening fully. As a result, less blood can pass through. Symptoms may include:
- Chest pain (angina) or tightness
- Feeling faint or lightheaded with exertion
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity
- Fatigue, particularly during times of increased activity
2. Aortic Valve Regurgitation (Aortic Insufficiency): In this case, the aortic valve doesn't close tightly enough, leading to blood leaking backward. Symptoms may include:
- Shortness of breath during exercise or when lying down
- Tiredness and weakness, especially during increased activity
- Irregular heartbeat
- Lightheadedness or fainting
- Chest pain or discomfort that worsens during exercise
It's essential to recognize that symptoms often don't appear until the disease has progressed. Risk factors for aortic valve disease include being over age 60, having a bicuspid aortic valve (a congenital condition), congenital heart disease, radiation therapy to the chest for cancers (such as Hodgkin Lymphoma), and rheumatic heart disease. The risk increases with age, and early detection allows for timely treatment.
Remember that if you experience any symptoms suggestive of aortic valve disease, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Regular check-ups and awareness can help catch problems early and ensure appropriate management. If you have questions, discuss them with your physician.
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