Moneycontrol News | December 7, 2023 | Images: Canva
early signs of heart disease
Have you been experiencing shortness of breath lately? Is it accompanied by chest pain and a feeling of dizziness? These symptoms may be due to underlying aortic stenosis, a cardiac condition that may lead to heart failure if not diagnosed and treated on time
Aortic stenosis refers to the narrowing of the aortic valve, thus blocking or decreasing the blood flow from the left ventricle (the heart's main pumping chamber) into the aorta. As a result, your heart needs to work extra hard to be able to push blood
The most common cause of aortic stenosis is atherosclerosis, which is a result of the gradual deposition of calcium on the aortic valve. Such deposition, often due to increasing age, can lead to stiffness of the valve tissue
It is a gradual condition, and the symptoms may occur over a long period of time. These include breathlessness, especially with increased physical activity
You may experience fatigue and become aware of a pounding or fluttering heartbeat. Episodes of syncope (fainting spells) may be observed. A physically stressful situation, like exercise, can increase trigger the symptoms
Consuming a healthy diet with potassium-rich components like spinach, kale, and broccoli is an excellent way of maintaining normal blood pressure levels. This, in turn, can aid in delaying aortic stenosis
High levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the bloodstream can increase the chances of aortic stenosis. Lifestyle modifications like healthy dietary choices and exercise can keep cholesterol levels in check
In addition to the large number of ill effects that have been known, smoking has a significant influence on the development of plaques in your arteries, thus leading to atherosclerosis
People with diabetes must be cautious about vascular complications like this. Diabetes can affect the heart valve and trigger inflammation, which may be succeeded by the accumulation of calcium