Glossary of Terms
Aortic Valve Stenosis
A heart valve disorder that narrows or obstructs the aortic valve opening. This prevents the aortic valve from opening properly, resulting in increased pressure inside the left ventricle and obstructing blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta. As the aortic valve becomes narrower, the left heart ventricle becomes thicker, decreasing blood flow and can lead to chest pain.
Blood may back up into the lungs, resulting in shortness of breath. Severe forms of aortic valve stenosis can prevent blood from reaching the brain and the rest of the body, causing light-headedness and fainting.
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