Aortic Stenosis
Aortic stenosis is a condition where the aortic valve — one of the heart’s key valves — becomes narrowed, stiff, or unable to open fully. This valve acts like a gateway, allowing oxygen-rich blood to leave the heart and travel to the rest of the body. When it becomes restricted, the heart must work considerably harder to push blood through the smaller opening. Over time, this extra strain can weaken the heart muscle and reduce its ability to function efficiently.
Why does it happen?
In most people, aortic stenosis develops gradually as part of the natural ageing process, when calcium builds up on the valve and reduces its flexibility. It may also occur in those born with an abnormal valve structure, such as a bicuspid aortic valve, which is more prone to narrowing earlier in life. Previous infections involving the heart valve, or other less common medical conditions, can also lead to long-term thickening or scarring of the valve.
What are the symptoms?
Many people have no symptoms for several years, as the body adapts to the early stages of narrowing. When the condition becomes more advanced, you may begin to notice:
- Shortness of breath or reduced exercise capacity.
- Chest pain or tightness.
- Lightheadedness and fainting spells.
- Fatigue or feeling unusually tired.
These symptoms often appear gradually and may worsen over time, especially during physical activity.
Why is it important?
Severe aortic stenosis places significant pressure on the heart. If left untreated, it can lead to heart failure, rhythm disturbances, or other serious complications. Once symptoms begin, the condition tends to progress more rapidly. Early diagnosis and timely treatment — including surgical valve replacement or a minimally invasive transcatheter procedure (TAVI) — are essential to protect long-term heart function and overall wellbeing.
How is it treated?
There is currently no medication that can reverse the narrowing of the valve. Treatment focuses on replacing the damaged valve to restore healthy blood flow and relieve symptoms. Your cardiologist will advise whether traditional surgical valve replacement or a less invasive option such as TAVI is the most suitable approach for your individual circumstances.
frequently asked questions
Can aortic stenosis get better on its own?
Aortic stenosis does not improve on its own. Because the narrowing is caused by structural changes to the valve — often due to ageing or calcium build-up — it tends to progress gradually over time. While medicines may help manage related symptoms, they cannot reverse the narrowing. Regular monitoring with your cardiologist is essential to determine when treatment may be needed.
How is aortic stenosis diagnosed?
Aortic stenosis is usually diagnosed through a combination of a physical examination and heart investigations. Your doctor may hear a characteristic heart murmur during your consultation. The most important test is an echocardiogram (heart ultrasound), which shows how the valve is moving and how well the heart is pumping. Additional tests, such as an ECG, blood tests, or a CT scan, may also be used to assess the severity of the condition.
What happens if aortic stenosis is left untreated?
If severe aortic stenosis is not treated, the heart is forced to work increasingly hard to pump blood through the narrowed valve. Over time, this can lead to breathlessness, chest pain, blackouts, heart failure, or other serious complications. Once symptoms develop, timely valve replacement — either through surgery or a minimally invasive procedure such as TAVI — is crucial to protect your heart and improve long-term outcomes.
Results and Next Steps
Your heart health matters — and we’re here to help. Whether you have a specific concern, wish to arrange a consultation, or simply want expert guidance, our friendly team at Heart Doc is ready to assist.
You can contact us to book an appointment, discuss our services, or request further information about your condition or treatment options. We aim to make every step of your journey as straightforward and reassuring as possible.