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Aortic Stenosis & Valve Replacement

Heart & Blood Health | Last Active: Jul 8 6:34am | Replies (151)
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@karenmw

I’ve had mild aortic stenosis for years. It’s now progressed to moderate. Is there an average length of time before it’s severe? Is there anything I can do to forestall that?

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Replies to "I’ve had mild aortic stenosis for years. It’s now progressed to moderate. Is there an average..."
Teresa, Volunteer Mentor | @hopeful33250 | Jul 8 6:34am

Hello @karenmw and welcome to Mayo Connect. I wish I had an answer to that question, however, from personal experience, I think that it is a watch and wait approach. I developed heart valve issues at age 11, and now as an older adult it is still in the "moderate" range.

When it comes to heart health, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important. This would include exercise and healthy eating. Having regular check-ups with the cardiologist is important as well.

I'm sure that you have probably had an echocardiogram. This way, your doctor can know your ejection fraction (EF). Here is a link from Mayo Clinc with an explanation of EF,
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ekg/expert-answers/ejection-fraction/faq-20058286
There are also meds that can help keep your heart stronger and work more efficiently until valve replacement or repair is a viable option.

How long have you been dealing with aortic stenosis? What does your cardiologist have to say about the things you can do, or how long it may take to progress?

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