**Aortic Stenosis**

(noun)

Aortic stenosis refers to a medical condition characterized by the narrowing or blockage of the aortic valve, a crucial component of the heart responsible for regulating blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta. This narrowing impedes the smooth flow of oxygen-rich blood from the heart into the aorta and the rest of the body. Aortic stenosis often develops gradually over time, progressively obstructing the valve and impeding the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively.

**Causes of Aortic Stenosis**

(noun)

1. **Degenerative Valve Disease**: The most common cause of aortic stenosis is the progressive degeneration of the aortic valve over time, particularly in elderly individuals. This degeneration can lead to calcium deposits and stiffening of the valve leaflets, resulting in narrowing of the valve opening.

2. **Congenital Malformation**: Aortic stenosis can also be present at birth due to congenital malformations of the aortic valve, such as a bicuspid valve (two leaflets instead of three). This abnormality can cause stenosis later in life.

3. **Rheumatic Fever**: A rare cause of aortic stenosis is rheumatic fever, which can damage the heart valves due to a streptococcal infection. This condition is more prevalent in developing countries where rheumatic fever is not adequately treated.

**Symptoms of Aortic Stenosis**

(noun)

1. **Chest Pain (Angina)**: Individuals with aortic stenosis may experience chest pain or discomfort, often during physical exertion, due to inadequate blood flow and oxygen supply to the heart muscles.

2. **Shortness of Breath**: As aortic stenosis worsens, it can lead to breathlessness, especially during exertion or when lying flat. This symptom commonly results from blood backing up into the lungs due to reduced forward flow.

3. **Dizziness and Fainting**: In severe cases, aortic stenosis can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or even fainting. This occurs due to reduced blood flow to the brain, especially during periods of exertion or rapid changes in position.

4. **Heart Murmur**: A doctor may detect a heart murmur, an abnormal sound caused by turbulent blood flow through the narrowed aortic valve, during a physical examination.

**Treatment of Aortic Stenosis**

(noun)

1. **Medication**: While there is no medication specifically designed to treat aortic stenosis, certain drugs may be prescribed to manage symptoms or associated conditions, such as heart failure or high blood pressure.

2. **Aortic Valve Replacement**: The definitive treatment for severe aortic stenosis is surgical replacement of the damaged aortic valve. This can involve open-heart surgery or less invasive procedures, such as transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

3. **Regular Monitoring**: Patients with mild aortic stenosis may not require immediate treatment but should be closely monitored by a healthcare professional to evaluate disease progression and symptoms.

**Conclusion**

Aortic stenosis is a cardiac condition characterized by the narrowing of the aortic valve, hindering normal blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. Awareness of its causes, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for timely management and to prevent complications associated with this condition.