Aortic stenosis is a serious heart condition that occurs when the aortic valve in your heart becomes narrowed, impeding the valve’s ability to open fully. This narrowing restricts blood flow from the heart to the main artery (aorta) and subsequently to the rest of the body, leading to potential heart complications.
Expert care for aortic stenosis is available from Dr. Shrikanth Upadya and the board-certified cardiologists at Cardiac and Vascular Consultants. With offices in The Villages, Lecanto, Leesburg, Wildwood, Summerfield, and Lady Lake, Florida, our team offers ongoing support to help manage your heart health.
Recognizing Symptoms
Symptoms of aortic stenosis can range from mild to severe and may not appear until the condition is advanced. They include:
- An abnormal heart sound (heart murmur) detected through a stethoscope
- Chest pain or tightness during physical activity
- Dizziness or fainting spells during exertion
- Shortness of breath, particularly after activity
- Fatigue, especially with increased activity
- Heart palpitations or a rapid, fluttering heartbeat
- Poor appetite and weight gain issues in children
If left untreated, aortic stenosis may lead to heart failure, characterized by symptoms like fatigue, breathlessness, and swollen extremities.
When to Consult a Doctor
If you notice a heart murmur or develop symptoms indicative of aortic stenosis, it is crucial to consult a cardiologist. Early diagnosis can prevent complications and improve treatment outcomes.
Causes and Risk Factors
Aortic stenosis can result from several factors, including:
- Congenital heart defects: Some individuals are born with an aortic valve that has two, one, or four cusps, deviating from the norm of three.
- Calcium buildup: Over time, calcium deposits can accumulate on the valve cusps, particularly affecting older adults and those with congenital valve abnormalities.
- Rheumatic fever: This condition can scar the aortic valve, contributing to stenosis.
Risk factors include advanced age, congenital heart disease, past infections affecting the heart, cardiovascular risk factors like diabetes and high cholesterol, chronic kidney disease, and a history of chest radiation therapy.
Why Choose Cardiac and Vascular Consultants?
Cardiac and Vascular Consultants provides comprehensive heart care across Lake, Sumter, and Citrus Counties, with a focus on advanced treatment and personalized support.
Led by Dr. Shrikanth Upadya, a board-certified cardiologist known for his expertise in interventional procedures, our team of specialists uses modern diagnostic tools and the latest techniques to manage complex heart conditions like aortic stenosis. With accredited imaging centers and experienced staff, we deliver reliable care at every visit.
Expert Valve Care Close to Home
Get trusted care for aortic stenosis from Dr. Upadya and our team. Call our main office at 352-513-3482 or our Lecanto office at 352-633-1966 today.
