Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Aortic Stenosis
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Treatment & Monitoring
What are the treatments for the condition?
A goal of treatment is to allow the heart to get more blood into general circulation. Various medicines can help improve overall blood supply to the body and the heart. They can also help reduce the person's symptoms.
In some cases, surgery is recommended to correct the aortic stenosis. Balloon valvuloplasty is a technique that lowers the pressure across the valve by slightly enlarging the opening. This is usually done when someone is not stable enough for corrective surgery. More often, heart valve surgery is performed to correct the problem with the aortic valve.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Medicines used to treat aortic stenosis can cause a variety of side effects. Surgery can cause bleeding, infection, or allergic reaction to anesthesia.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
Successful replacement of the valve restores normal blood flow. The long-term outcome is usually very good. Artificial valves wear out over a period of years. Their function is monitored, and the valves are replaced as necessary. Some artificial valves require that the person take:
How is the condition monitored?
An individual with aortic stenosis will have regular visits with the healthcare provider. The provider may order regular electrocardiograms and echocardiograms to detect any signs of deterioration. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the provider.