Symptoms of Aortic Valve Damage
When the aortic valve is damaged, the heart works harder to maintain proper blood flow throughout the body. However, it may struggle to pump enough blood to adequately oxygenate the body. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath during physical activity or at rest
- Irregular or rapid heartbeat
- Fainting
- Swelling in the feet, legs, or abdomen
- General weakness
- Chest pain (angina) – a less common but more serious symptom
It’s important to note that some individuals with aortic regurgitation may not experience any symptoms until several years after the condition has developed.
Diagnosis of Aortic Valve Insufficiency
When it comes to diagnosing aortic valve insufficiency, medical professionals employ various techniques. One of the initial steps involves listening to the patient’s chest for the presence of a heart murmur or a forceful beat. Additionally, the doctor will measure the patient’s blood pressure, as a low diastolic blood pressure often indicates aortic valve insufficiency. Chest x-rays are performed to identify any signs of fluid accumulation in the lungs and to check for swelling in the left lower heart chamber, specifically near the aortic valve. Furthermore, aortic angiography, echocardiogram (an ultrasound of the heart), MRI of the heart, left heart catheterization, and transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) are also utilized as diagnostic tools.