Introduction: What is Aortic Valve Disease?
The aortic valve plays a crucial role in regulating blood flow from the heart to the body. When this valve malfunctions due to narrowing (aortic stenosis) or leakage (aortic regurgitation), it can lead to serious heart complications, reduced circulation, and increased strain on the heart muscle.
At Champion Health System, we specialize in early detection, minimally invasive procedures, and comprehensive heart care to help patients manage aortic valve disease and maintain optimal heart health.
Types of Aortic Valve Disease
1. Aortic Stenosis (Narrowed Aortic Valve)
- Causes: Age-related calcification, congenital defects, rheumatic fever, high blood pressure.
- Symptoms: Chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, irregular heartbeat.
2. Aortic Regurgitation (Leaky Aortic Valve)
- Causes: Congenital defects, infections, connective tissue disorders, aortic aneurysms.
- Symptoms: Palpitations, swelling in the legs, fatigue, shortness of breath, lightheadedness.
Diagnosis of Aortic Valve Disease
- Echocardiogram (TTE/TEE): Visualizes valve function using ultrasound.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG): Detects abnormal heart rhythms.
- Cardiac MRI & CT Angiography: Provides detailed imaging of heart structures.
- Cardiac Catheterization: Measures pressure inside the heart and identifies blockages.
Treatment Options for Aortic Valve Disease
1. Medications for Symptom Management
- Beta-blockers: Reduce heart strain.
- Diuretics: Decrease fluid buildup.
- ACE inhibitors: Improve blood circulation.
- Anticoagulants: Prevent blood clots.
2. Minimally Invasive Procedures
- Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR): A catheter-based procedure for high-risk patients.
- Balloon Valvuloplasty: Used to temporarily widen a narrowed valve.
3. Surgical Treatment
- Aortic Valve Replacement (AVR): Replaces the damaged valve with a mechanical or biological valve.
- Ross Procedure: Uses the patient’s own pulmonary valve to replace the aortic valve.
Recovery & Lifestyle Changes
- Regular exercise: Walking, swimming, and light activities.
- Heart-healthy diet: Low sodium, high fiber, balanced meals.
- Blood pressure monitoring: Regular checkups to prevent complications.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol: Reduces further heart strain.
Why Choose Champion Health System?
- Expert cardiologists and cardiovascular surgeons.
- Advanced diagnostics for early detection.
- Minimally invasive procedures for quicker recovery.
- Comprehensive heart care and personalized treatment plans.
Contact Us
- Henderson, NC – 511 Ruin Creek Rd Suite 106 | 919-339-4077
- Dunn, NC – 710 Erwin Rd | 910-304-1212
- Oxford, NC – 1614 Williamsboro St | 855-618-2311
- Website: championhealthsystem.com
- Email: [email protected]
Tags:
Aortic Valve Disease, Heart Health, Aortic Stenosis, Aortic Regurgitation, Heart Valve Replacement, TAVR, Cardiology, Heart Surgery, Champion Health System, Cardiovascular Care, Heart Disease Prevention, Minimally Invasive Heart Procedures, Cardiac Treatment Options
