iCliniq Logo
HomeAnswersCardiologystiffened aortic valve

What could cause uneasiness and fatigue in a heart patient?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

My wife has been experiencing uneasiness and fatigue for the past two days. We consulted a physician who recommended an ECG and X-rays, both of which were normal. The physician then suggested a 2D echocardiogram. The 2D echocardiogram report shows a suspected bicuspid aortic valve, calcification of the valve with severe aortic stenosis (peak gradient/mean gradient 102/67 mmHg), and mild 2+ aortic regurgitation. No regional wall motion abnormalities (RWMA), normal left ventricular systolic function with an ejection fraction (LVEF) of 60 percent, and mild concentric left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). What treatment options are available?

Please advise.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have reviewed your health query and understand that you are concerned about your wife's cardiac issues and recent symptoms. She is experiencing problems with one of the heart valves, specifically the aortic valve, which is typically composed of three leaflets or cusps. In 1 to 2 percent of the population, the aortic valve has only two cusps due to a congenital absence of one cusp, which can lead to functional issues. Initially, these issues may not be noticeable, but over time, the valve may develop further problems, and symptoms will appear.

In your wife's case, the leaflets of her aortic valve have become stiff (hardened), causing the heart to exert more force to push blood through the narrowed valve. The aortic valve is located at the exit point of the heart, where blood leaves the heart to circulate throughout the body. Otherwise, her heart is functioning normally. She requires proper management of this issue by a cardiologist.

The cardiologist may recommend a different type of echocardiogram called transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), which provides more detailed information compared to a 2D echocardiogram. They will be in a better position to determine the next steps. In some cases, surgical replacement of the defective aortic valve may be necessary.

I hope this information is helpful.

Please feel free to ask if you need further assistance.

Medically reviewed byDr. K. Shobana

Published At June 19, 2018
Reviewed AtOctober 22, 2024

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Listen to related tracks in our music library

Ask your health query to a doctor online

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.