AN INSIDE LOOK AT HEART VALVE FAILURE
See how this deadly disease can impact your heart.
UNDERSTANDING HEART VALVE FAILURE (SEVERE AORTIC STENOSIS)
Take a Risk AssessmentHEART VALVE FAILURE STARTS WITH AORTIC STENOSIS
One of the most common types of heart valve disease in the US is called aortic stenosis. It’s also the most dangerous. Over time, it can progress to heart valve failure, a condition that’s as deadly as some cancers.
HERE’S WHAT AORTIC STENOSIS LOOKS LIKE
Aortic stenosis occurs when the flaps (or leaflets) of the aortic valve become stiff due to calcium buildup, preventing them from properly opening and closing. This makes the heart work much harder to push blood through the tight valve opening.
STAGES OF THE DISEASE
Heart valve failure can be a quiet killer.
THAT’S WHY I’M BEING SO LOUD ABOUT IT!
Many people are diagnosed only after their symptoms put them in the hospital. By the time your heart sends up warning signs, it might be too late.
HEART VALVE FAILURE CAN CAUSE A SUDDEN “DROP OFF” IN YOUR HEALTH
Things can go from bad to worse quickly—even without symptoms. An echocardiogram could be your only chance of finding out if you have heart valve failure.
Ask your doctor to order one.
