Recovered heart education
Aortic Valve Disease Education
The original Cardiac Rhythm Specialists conditions library included aortic valve disease because valve problems can affect heart rhythm and pumping. This page recovers that education. It is not a statement that valve surgery is offered through this office.
How the aortic valve works
Recovered education explained that the heart has four valves. A normal aortic valve has three leaflets that seal tightly when closed. During contraction the aortic valve opens so blood can flow from the left ventricle into the aorta. When the heart relaxes, the valve closes to keep blood from re-entering the left ventricle.
Stenosis and regurgitation
Aortic stenosis is narrowing or obstruction that prevents the valve from opening fully. The left ventricle may have to pump harder and can thicken or enlarge. Aortic regurgitation occurs when the valve does not close properly, allowing blood to leak back into the left ventricle.
Symptoms mentioned in recovered education
A person may have few symptoms at first. As valve disease becomes more severe, recovered text listed shortness of breath, chest pain, back pressure from fluid in the lungs, poor pumping, palpitations, and arrhythmias.
Causes listed on the original page
The recovered page listed degeneration of valve leaflets, enlargement of the base of the aorta, endocarditis, dissection of the aorta, traumatic injury, and hypertension among causes and risk factors. Those lists are educational, not a diagnosis of your valve.
Why this appears on a heart rhythm website
Valve disease can contribute to palpitations, atrial fibrillation, or reduced pumping. A heart rhythm specialist may still need a complete picture of the heart’s structure. Structural heart procedures are decided by the treating physicians, not by this page.
When to contact a physician
Call the office if you were told you have aortic valve disease and have rhythm questions. Call 911 for sudden severe chest pain, fainting, or sudden severe shortness of breath.