Aortic stenosis is a serious condition that, if left untreated, can have a major impact on your quality of life and long-term health. This condition causes your heart to work harder, eventually leading to weakness and complications. Early recognition and management are essential. This article explores the different steps you can take to prevent aortic valve stenosis.
What is The Prevention of Aortic Stenosis?
The prevention of aortic stenosis caused by ageing is typically challenging. However, you can take proactive steps to mitigate other cardiovascular diseases by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This includes managing your diet, sustaining a healthy weight, and exercising regularly.
Other methods of aortic valve stenosis prevention:
1. Maintain optimal blood pressure:
Having high blood pressure (hypertension) increases the risk of developing aortic stenosis. About 40% of individuals diagnosed with aortic stenosis also struggle with hypertension. This condition places a lot of stress on the heart, causing it to have to work harder to get blood through the narrow arteries. This increased stress can accelerate the progression of aortic stenosis and can lead to complications such as heart failure.
2. Reduce your cholesterol levels:
Elevated levels of cholesterol and triglyceride are associated with an higher risk of myocardial infarction and aortic stenosis. Fortunately, these conditions can often be effectively managed with lifestyle changes like adopting a healthy diet and exercising regularly. In some cases, medication may also be necessary to achieve optimal lipid and triglyceride levels.
3. Avoid smoking
Smoking also damages the arteries near your heart. This causes aortic stenosis, where the valve contracts, making blood flow difficult. Participate in supporting smoking cessation by providing programs and medications to address withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
4. Control diabetes condition
The risk of aortic stenosis is significantly increased in diabetic patients. Researchers claim that the narrowing of the aortic valve causes inflammation and calcium build up. It is thus important for diabetic patients to properly manage the condition to avoid the development of aortic stenosis.
Aortic stenosis resulting from bacterial infections can largely be prevented by promptly treating these infections. This involves adhering to antibiotic and medication regimens as directed, even beyond symptom relief.
However, aortic stenosis stemming from inherited or chronic conditions is typically not preventable. Congenital aortic valve stenosis, for instance, cannot be prevented.