Surgery: Archives

Bariatric October 14, 2023

Curtailing Cardiovascular Risks with Bariatric Surgery: Exploring the Connection

Introduction

Bariatric Surgery, for all good reasons, has been in increasing demand as an effective weight reduction alternative by people struggling to lose those extra pounds through non-surgical methods without any positive outcome. When at the peak of one’s weight, apart from the social, emotional, and physical embarrassment, the cardiovascular risks weighing on these obese people are the real cause of concern. One of the studies conducted by the American College of Cardiology reviewed the role of Bariatric Surgery in lowering CV risks in obese and suggested that it significantly lowered CV mortality and reduced heart failure, myocardial infarction, and stroke incidences.

Weight Loss Surgery or not, is always a difficult decision to make for people trying to lose weight. However, when no non-surgical treatment works, people often resort to this surgery as their final call.

In this blog, let us explore the connection between Bariatric Surgery and cardiovascular risks. For this, we need to understand how this treatment works and affects the cardiovascular health outcomes in a patient.

Understanding Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric Surgery treats obesity. But many of us feed on the misconception that surgery removes fat from your body. No, it does not. The surgery aims to reduce the size of your stomach and re-route the intestine track to restrict the food intake and the body’s ability to absorb nutrients. The smaller the stomach size, the fuller one feels with less food. The re-routing of the digestive tract limits digestion and absorption of the nutrients. Thus, it leads to considerable weight loss in a shorter span, when combined with proper diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.

Obesity is the Root Cause of Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs).

Obesity is an excessive or abnormal accumulation of fat in the body that risks one’s health. It is a chronic and complex medical condition and has become common in people of all ages. It is the root cause of CVDs, often leading to death if left unaddressed. Obese are at a high risk of developing various heart-related issues like-

High Cholesterol – A high amount of fat in the body causes blockages in the blood vessels, increasing the chances of stroke or heart attack.
Type 2 Diabetes- Excessive storage of fat results in the muscles and tissues becoming more resistant to insulin, leading to the risk of developing type-2 diabetes. This impairs the circulatory, immune, and nervous system and leads to stroke or heart attack.
High blood pressure- The amount of pressure the blood flow exerts on the inner walls of the arteries increases with the accumulation of fatty tissue. The heart needs to work hard to pump blood throughout the body.
Heart Diseases- Buildup of fatty substances in blood vessels leads to atherosclerosis, impairing cardiac function. Fat accumulation may cause the heart to pump blood more rigorously, and when it fails, the blood gets collected in parts of the body, like the lungs, legs, or feet.

With weight reduction, a person is at a lower risk of these diseases and discomfort associated with managing excess body weight and can enjoy a healthier and fuller life.

Bariatric Surgeries to Treat Obesity

Bariatric Surgeries aim to treat class III obesity, also known as morbid obesity. People with a BMI of 40 or more, or 35 or more in people with any co-morbidity fall under class III obesity. Though weight reduction is not a one-time solution or a quick fix to obesity, proper diet checks, regular exercise, and positive lifestyle changes help achieve it sustainably.

Gastric Sleeve Surgery- Known as Sleeve Gastrectomy, the surgery reduces the stomach size by approx. 80%, thus leaving behind a tubular sleeve that is banana-shaped. The reduced stomach size makes one feel fuller with less food intake. The surgery also reduces the amount of hunger hormones the stomach produces, thus restricting the impulses to eat more.
Gastric Bypass Surgery- Gastric Bypass Surgery is also known as Roux-en-Y surgery. It is common bariatric surgery and is performed when diet and exercise fail to reduce weight. The surgeon creates a small pouch from the stomach and staples it. The small pouch gets separated from the rest of the stomach. This new pouch becomes the functional portion of the stomach. The newly created pouch is attached to the lower part of the small intestine, bypassing the upper portion. The swallowed food will go to the small pouch of the stomach, and then directly to the lower portion of the small intestine. The new route bypasses a major part of the stomach, and the upper portion of the small intestine.
Duodenal Switch Surgery- The combination of Gastric Sleeve and Intestinal Bypass surgeries, this surgery removes a major portion of the stomach and attaches the smaller pouch to the lower intestine, creating a shorter path for the food to pass from the stomach to the intestine.

Bariatric Surgery -Lowering CVD Risks

By treating excess weight, the cause of CVDs, Bariatric Surgery lowers the future risk of these diseases. When excess weight is treated, the associated diseases are either prevented or eventually treated. When a person has to carry less weight, the heart has to put in less effort to pump blood and, hence, is at a lower risk of heart-related problems. For obese people already having CVD, studies show that those who had the surgery were at a lower risk of adverse outcomes than those with similar conditions who did not undergo the surgery. It reduces the incidence of heart failure, myocardial infarction, and stroke in obese patients. Without weight loss management or surgery, morbid obesity sooner or later leads to cardiovascular health issues. These chances could be reduced if one undergoes Bariatric Surgery. The surgery is a long-term treatment solution for weight loss and curtailing the associated health issues of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart attack, stroke, and congestive heart failure.

Conclusion

Obesity is complex and chronic. It is not an aesthetic concern to be ashamed of or feel embarrassed about, but a medical concern that requires a proper line of treatment combined with a sustained diet plan, exercise routine, and positive lifestyle changes. Bariatric Surgery is the best long-term solution, safe and effective, with most patients experiencing losing excess weight, post-surgery. However, the outcome of each surgery varies and depends upon the post-operative care and weight management. The benefits outweigh the associated risks and complications that this surgery carries of a typical surgical procedure.

References

https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/Journal-Scans/2022/03/14/15/47/Bariatric-Surgery-and-CV-Disease
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17285-bariatric-obesity-surgery
https://www.heart.org/en/news/2021/04/05/for-heart-patients-bariatric-surgery-may-lower-risk-of-future-cardiovascular-problems
https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/Journal-Scans/2022/03/14/15/47/Bariatric-Surgery-and-CV-Disease

Knee Replacement September 29, 2023

Arthritis Showdown: Unraveling the Differences Between Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Arthritis is an unwelcome guest that barges into the lives of countless individuals, bringing joint pain and inflammation. Today, we will compare and contrast the two common types of arthritis: Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis. While both share similarities in joint discomfort, they have distinct characteristics that set them apart. So, let us embark on a journey to unravel their causes, symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, and available treatments.

Osteoarthritis

It typically occurs as a result of wear and tear on the joints. Cartilage, the tissue which covers the ends of bones within a joint, is mainly impacted by this condition. Over time, the cartilage breaks down, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced joint mobility. In addition, factors like aging, obesity, joint injuries, and repetitive joint stress can contribute to OA development.

Osteoarthritis symptoms include joint pain, swelling, tenderness, stiffness, and a decreased range of motion. These symptoms often worsen after periods of inactivity or excessive joint use. Osteoarthritis most commonly affects joints, including the hips, knees, hands, and spine.

Diagnosing osteoarthritis involves a combination of a physical examination, medical history review, and imaging tests such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These tests help evaluate the condition of the joint and rule out other potential causes of the symptoms.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

It is an autoimmune disorder wherein the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s healthy tissues. It primarily targets the synovium—the lining of the joints. This chronic inflammation leads to joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, and if left untreated, can result in joint deformity and functional impairment.

The cause of rheumatoid arthritis is still unidentified. However, experts believe that it involves a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental triggers. Women are more commonly affected by rheumatoid arthritis than men, and it often develops between 30 and 60.

The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include joint pain, swelling, morning stiffness lasting more than an hour, fatigue, and a general feeling of malaise. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect multiple joints simultaneously, including the wrists, hands, feet, and knees. In some cases, it may also involve other organs, such as the lungs or heart.

A thorough examination of symptoms, medical history, and blood tests such as rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies may be required to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, imaging tests like X-rays and ultrasounds may also be used to assess joint damage and inflammation.

Differences Between Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis affect the joints, resulting in pain and stiffness. However, they differ significantly in their underlying causes and characteristics. Osteoarthritis is known to be primarily caused by wear and tear. Conversely, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition.

Osteoarthritis generally develops later in life, often after 50 years of age, and is common in individuals with a history of joint injuries, obesity, or occupations involving repetitive joint movements. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, can occur at any age and tends to affect more women than men.

In terms of disease progression, osteoarthritis usually develops gradually over time. In contrast,
rheumatoid arthritis can have a more rapid and aggressive onset, with symptoms often affecting multiple joints simultaneously. In addition, without appropriate treatment, rheumatoid arthritis can lead to joint deformities and functional limitations, whereas osteoarthritis is typically less severe in its impact.

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis have different treatments. For osteoarthritis, the focus is on pain management, lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, and possibly nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation. In some severe cases, joint replacement surgery might be necessary.

In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis requires a more comprehensive approach. Treatment aims to reduce inflammation, manage pain, and slow disease progression. Medication is commonly prescribed to control inflammation and suppress the overactive immune response. Physical therapy, assistive devices, and joint protection techniques are essential for managing rheumatoid arthritis.

Conclusion

In conclusion, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are distinct forms of arthritis with different causes, symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis methods, and treatment approaches. Osteoarthritis primarily results from joint wear and tear, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition. Understanding the differences between these conditions helps to accurately diagnose and appropriately manage the condition, as tailored treatment plans can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with arthritis. If you experience joint pain or suspect you may have arthritis, consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment approach.

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?
A: Osteoarthritis is primarily caused by joint wear and tear, while in rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s healthy tissues.

Q: How do the symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis differ?
A: Osteoarthritis symptoms include joint pain, tenderness, stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of motion. Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms include joint pain, swelling, morning stiffness lasting over an hour, fatigue, and general malaise.

Q: What are the associated risk factors of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?
A: Risk factors for osteoarthritis include aging, obesity, joint injuries, and repetitive stress on the joints.

Q: How are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis diagnosed?
A: Osteoarthritis is diagnosed through a physical examination, medical history review, and imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI. Rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis involves examining symptoms, medical history, and blood tests such as rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies.

Aortic Stenosis/TAVR/TAVI September 12, 2023

Difference between TAVR and SAVR

Introduction
There are many ways to treat patients with structural heart diseases. Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) and Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement (SAVR) are two different methods used to treat aortic stenosis, a condition in which the aortic valve becomes narrowed and doesn’t open properly. The aortic valves become calcified and stiff, making it difficult for the heart to pump enough blood effectively. The main function of the aortic valve is to open and close and allow blood to flow from the left ventricle of the heart to the aorta through which oxygen-rich blood is supplied to the rest of the body and the coronary arteries. This can increase the risk of heart failure, leave you feeling faint and dizzy, and cause chest pain, also known as angina. In such a case, aortic valve repair surgery, or what we know as aortic valve replacement, is often recommended for these heart patients. It is totally up to the doctor to determine the better option: open-chest surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) or minimally invasive transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), after a detailed consideration of all factors, including the patient’s preferences.

What is the difference between TAVR and SAVR?
TAVR is a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure done through a small groin incision. A catheter is inserted through the incision and guided to the heart, where a replacement valve is deployed without the need to open the chest or the heart. TAVR is typically done on older patients or those who previously had a SAVR and are considered high-risk for traditional open-heart surgery, who are vulnerable to complications.

SAVR, on the other hand, is a traditional open-heart surgical procedure that has been in practice for over 50 years and involves making a large incision in the chest to access the heart. The damaged or diseased aortic valve is then replaced through the incision. SAVR is typically done on symptomatic patients who can tolerate open-heart surgery.

Which is better – TAVR or SAVR?
Both TAVR and SAVR have risks associated with them as well as similar outcomes in terms of survival and improvement in symptoms.

In terms of longevity, both TAVR and SAVR have similar outcomes, with both valves lasting for about 10-15 years.
Minimal invasive procedure: One of the main advantages of TAVR over SAVR is that it is a minimally invasive procedure, which means that the incision is much smaller and there is less pain and discomfort to the body.
Better quality of life: As TAVR is done through a catheter rather than open-heart surgery, there is a lower risk of complications such as bleeding and infection.
Latest Technology with lesser pain & faster recovery Another advantage of TAVR is that it is typically considered a safer option for high-risk patients, such as the elderly or those with other health conditions that make open-heart surgery risky. This is because TAVR is less invasive and carries a lower risk of complications.
Shorter hospital stay & improvement in heart function: TAVR is associated with a shorter hospital stay and a faster recovery time when compared to SAVR. TAVR also has a lower risk of stroke in comparison to SAVR.

Also, the following factors decide which is the right procedure to choose between SAVR and TAVR,

Size considerations – Your surgeon will consider the size of your aortic valve and blood vessels.
Type of Aortic Disease – The type of aortic disease or condition also influences the surgeon’s choices.
Co-morbidities – Pre-existing co-morbidities like diabetes, lung disease or a history of heart attack will heavily influence the surgeon in the choice of procedure.
Cardiac issues and stroke risks – The choice of valve procedures is determined by the presence of certain cardiac conditions in patients. Like those with coronary artery diseases requiring surgical correction should opt for SAVR.
Age and frailty – Physiological conditions like age and capacities in daily life like ability to function on their own, mobility, ability to move around and strength of grip also determine the choice of valve procedure.

Conclusion
It’s important to consult a cardiologist and/or cardiac surgeon for guidance on which procedure is best for you, as the best option will depend on the individual’s specific heart condition and overall health. This will involve exploring all the benefits, risks, advantages, and disadvantages as well. Both TAVR and SAVR have similar outcomes in terms of survival and improvement in symptoms, but each has unique advantages and disadvantages.

FAQs :

Q. What is the difference between TAVR and SAVR?
A. TAVR is a minimally invasive procedure that is done through a small incision in the groin. A catheter is inserted through the incision and guided to the heart, where a replacement valve is deployed. SAVR, on the other hand, is a traditional open-heart surgical procedure that involves making a large incision in the chest to access the heart. The aortic valve is then replaced through the incision.

Q. Who is a candidate for TAVR?
A. TAVR is typically done on patients who are considered high-risk for traditional open-heart surgery. This can include elderly patients or those with other health conditions such as lung disease, kidney disease, or a history of previous heart surgery.

Q. Who is a candidate for SAVR?
A. SAVR is typically done on younger patients and those who can tolerate open-heart surgery.

Q. How long does each procedure take?
A. TAVR typically takes about 2-4 hours, while SAVR can take 4-6 hours or longer.

Q. What is the recovery time for each procedure?
A. TAVR has a shorter recovery time than SAVR, with most patients able to return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks. SAVR has a longer recovery time, with most patients taking 4-6 weeks or longer to fully recover.

Q. What are the risks associated with TAVR and SAVR?
A. TAVR carries a risk of complications such as bleeding, infection, and valve-related complications. SAVR carries risks such as bleeding, infection, and blood clots, as well as the risks associated with any open-heart surgery.

Q. How long do the valves last?
A. Both TAVR and SAVR valves last for about 10-15 years.

Q. Which procedure is best for me?
A. The best procedure for you will depend on your specific condition and overall health. It is important to consult a cardiologist and/or cardiac surgeon for guidance on which procedure is best for you.

References :
https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/946173
https://www.mainlinehealth.org/blog/savr-vs-tavr

Sinusitis September 4, 2023

Sinus Infection: Warning Signs And Symptoms

That constant battle with a stuffy nose, throbbing headache, and facial pain resulting from a sinus infection is exhausting! Sinus infections, or sinusitis, can turn even the brightest day into a foggy nightmare. But fear not! In this article, we will delve into sinus infections and uncover the warning signs and symptoms that should raise your alarm bells.

What is a Sinus Infection?

A sinus infection occurs when the sinuses, the air-filled cavities in the skull, become inflamed and infected. Multiple factors, including allergies, viral or bacterial infections, and structural abnormalities in the nasal passages, can cause this infection. The symptoms may include facial pain and pressure, nasal congestion, thick nasal discharge, headache, fatigue, and cough.

When Should You Seek Medical Help for Sinus Infection?

While mild sinus infections can often be managed at home with over-the-counter remedies, there are certain situations where it is vital to consult a doctor. If symptoms persist for multiple days, worsen after initial improvement, or are accompanied by high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, or vision changes, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A doctor’s evaluation can help determine the severity, type, and appropriate treatment for the sinus infection.

Warning Signs and Symptoms of Complications

In some cases, a severe sinus infection might lead to complications that require immediate medical attention. These complications may include spreading the infection to nearby structures, such as the eyes or brain. Warning signs and symptoms of complications include severe headache, worsening facial pain, swelling around the eyes, double vision, confusion, and high fever.

What to Expect During a Doctor’s Visit

During a doctor’s visit for a sinus infection, the healthcare provider will typically start by conducting a physical examination. This examination may involve checking for tenderness over the sinuses and examining the nasal passages. In some cases, additional diagnostic tests and procedures, such as imaging studies or nasal endoscopy, may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and identify the underlying cause of the infection. After confirming the diagnosis, the doctor will discuss the appropriate treatment options.

Coping with Sinus Infection

In addition to medical treatment, multiple self-care and preventative measures can help manage sinus infections and reduce the risk of future episodes. To manage symptoms at home, individuals can use saline nasal rinses or sprays to keep the nasal passages moist, apply warm compresses to the face to relieve pain and pressure, and stay hydrated. Strategies for preventing future sinus infections include avoiding known allergens, practising good hand hygiene, and quitting smoking.
While self-care measures can be effective in many cases, knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial. If symptoms persist or recur despite home remedies, it is advisable to consult a doctor. Ongoing symptoms may indicate the need for further evaluation or a change in treatment approach. Recurrent sinus infections may require a more thorough investigation to identify underlying factors contributing to the repeated infections.

Conclusion

Sinus infections can significantly impact one’s quality of life, but recognising the warning signs and symptoms can help prompt timely medical attention. Seeking a doctor’s evaluation is crucial when symptoms persist, worsen, or are accompanied by signs of complications. By understanding when to see a doctor and how to manage sinus infections, individuals can effectively address the condition and minimise its impact on their well-being. Remember, early intervention and appropriate treatment can lead to a faster recovery and a healthier future.

FAQs

Q: What are the symptoms of a sinus infection?
A: Common symptoms of a sinus infection include facial pain and pressure, nasal congestion, thick nasal discharge (often yellow or green), headache, fatigue, and cough. Some people may also experience a reduced sense of smell or taste.

Q: How long should I wait before seeing a doctor for a sinus infection?
A: If your symptoms persist for more than 10 days, worsen after initial improvement, or are accompanied by high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, or changes in vision, it is recommended to see a doctor promptly. These signs may indicate a more severe infection or potential complications.

Q: How can I manage a sinus infection at home?
A: While medical treatment is often necessary for sinus infections, there are some self-care measures you can try at home to alleviate symptoms. These include using saline nasal rinses or sprays to keep the nasal passages moist, applying warm compresses to the face to relieve pain and pressure, staying hydrated, and getting plenty of rest.

References:
https://acaai.org/allergies/allergic-conditions/sinus-infection/
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17701-sinusitis
https://www.healthline.com/health/cold-flu/sinus-infection-symptoms
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-sinusitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351661

Aortic Stenosis/TAVR/TAVI August 21, 2023

Aortic Stenosis: Understanding a Major Heart Condition

Aortic stenosis (AS) is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition affecting millions worldwide. While the condition can develop slowly over time, it can quickly become a major health concern, if left untreated or caught late, AS can progress rapidly and cause massive organ damage, leading to congestive heart failure and death within weeks or even days.

That is why knowing the causes and symptoms of AS is crucial to understand the severity of the condition and catching it early before it gets out of hand. So read on to learn more about this condition and how to protect yourself from its potentially life-ending consequences.

What is Aortic Stenosis?
Aortic stenosis (AS) is a medical condition affecting the aortic valve, which regulates blood flow from the heart to the body. It is caused when the aortic valve narrows, leading to restricted blood flow and increased pressure on the heart. This can cause your heart to work harder and strain against the walls of the blood vessels, resulting in fatigue and pain. When this happens, it can interfere with the normal blood flow out of the heart, cause heart damage, and result in a sudden catastrophic event known as a dissection. Dissection can prove to be fatal, leading to death.

Causes of Aortic Stenosis
There are a few causes of Aortic Stenosis. It can be hereditary and may run in families, increasing the risk of the condition. It is also more likely to occur in people aged 40-70 and above due to calcium buildup on the valve over time. Other causes include congenital heart defects, rheumatic fever and radiation therapy. Furthermore, medical conditions such as hypertension, Paget’s disease of the bone, heart failure, kidney disease, and autoimmune diseases can also increase the risk. Last but not least, smoking and untreated infections can also damage the heart valves and increase the risk of aortic stenosis.

Diagnosing Aortic Stenosis
Aortic stenosis is typically detected during a cardiovascular examination, including an EKG and listening for heart murmurs with a stethoscope. Other detection methods include chest X-ray, angiography, cardiac CT scan, cardiac catheterization, and heart MRI.

How Severe is Aortic Stenosis?
Aortic stenosis progresses slowly over several years and can worsen with age and secondary health conditions, such as heart failure, high blood pressure, and diabetes. While aortic stenosis can be a severe condition, its severity depends on various factors, including the extent of valve narrowing and the patient’s age and overall health. The degree of severity can vary from mild to severe. However, as mentioned above, any level of aortic stenosis can lead to significant complications if left untreated.

Heart Failure: One of the most serious complications of aortic stenosis is heart failure. It happens when the heart is unable to circulate an adequate amount of blood. The heart has to work harder to push blood through the narrow opening as the aortic valve becomes more obstructed. Over time, this can lead to a weakened heart muscle and an inability to pump blood to the rest of the body effectively. Symptoms of heart failure include swelling in the legs and feet, fatigue, shortness of breath, and an irregular heartbeat. Heart failure can sometimes be fatal, particularly if not diagnosed and treated promptly.
Arrhythmia:Another potential complication of aortic stenosis is arrhythmia or an irregular heartbeat. This can occur because the heart exerts more effort than necessary to circulate blood through the obstructed valve. As a result, it can disrupt the heart’s normal electrical activity. Arrhythmia can lead to symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, and fainting. While it can often be managed with medication or other treatments, it can also be a serious condition that requires close monitoring and intervention.
Cardiac Arrest: Cardiac arrest is probably one of the most severe complications of aortic stenosis. Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart stops beating suddenly. In some cases, people with aortic stenosis may experience sudden cardiac arrest without warning signs or symptoms. However, in many cases, cardiac arrest can be preceded by symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting. Cardiac arrest is life-threatening if not treated immediately.

Prevention of Aortic Stenosis
AS caused by natural aging is not usually preventable. But one should continue to lead a healthy lifestyle which includes managing diet, exercise, sleep, weight, and being alert to limit the interference of any cardiovascular disease. In addition, there are a few ways you can protect yourself against the development of aortic stenosis. These include:

Maintain a healthy weight throughout your life by eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly. This helps to keep your blood pressure under control and lowers your risk of cardiovascular disease.
Maintain healthy heart health by not smoking and following a healthy lifestyle, including getting enough sleep, avoiding alcohol.
Maintain and protect your blood vessels from damage by staying hydrated, avoiding excessive salt and sugar intake, getting enough exercise, and staying away from excessive sun exposure.
Aortic stenosis caused by bacterial infection is preventable if infections are treated on time with antibiotics and other medications.
Aortic stenosis caused by chronic or inherited conditions is not always preventable.
Periodic monitoring of routine ECG and regular medical checkups.

Summary
AS is most commonly seen in older people, especially after age 65. In some rare instances, children can be born with a defect in the aortic valve that can cause stenosis. Unfortunately, many do not realize they have AS until the condition triggers symptoms such as Pain or tightness in the chest with activity (angina), feeling of dizziness or fainting during activity, tiredness (fatigue), shortness of breath (dyspnoea), irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia) or Heart palpitations, swelling in your legs or they detect it during a medical diagnosis. AS is a complicated problem hence speaking with your doctor at the earliest about AS risks, especially when you have symptoms, can bring in timely intervention. There are advances in surgical and catheter-based techniques that can help treat the cases of older people with multiple conditions that complicate care in their recovery process. Timely or early treatment will ensure a good prognosis. Of course, that needs to be backed by lifelong follow-up and care to lead an everyday life. If left untreated, it can cause severe repercussions. Most do not make it more than a few years without treatment. If treatment is delayed, the extent of Heart damage decides if a full/partial recovery is possible.

FAQs

What is the leading cause of aortic stenosis?
Calcium buildup on the aortic valve that comes with aging and over time is the most common cause of Aortic stenosis, which makes the valve tissue stiff, narrow, and less flexible & hence restricts the blood flow from the Heart to the rest of the body.

How severe is aortic stenosis?
Those with severe Aortic stenosis develop symptoms with a survival rate as low as 50% at two years and 20% at five years without aortic valve replacement.

What are the signs and symptoms of aortic stenosis?
Symptoms of aortic stenosis can include chest pain, troubled breathing, dizziness, heart murmur, rapid or irregular heartbeat, difficulty walking short distances, swelling of ankles and feet, and difficulty sleeping.

What is the life expectancy with severe aortic stenosis?
Aortic stenosis can be dangerous, costly, and debilitating. Chances of survival without treatment for severe symptomatic aortic stenosis are as low as 50% at two years after symptom onset and 20% at five years.

References :
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23046-aortic-valve-stenosis
https://bestpractice.bmj.com/topics/en-us/325
https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-information/conditions-treated-a-to-z/aortic-valve-stenosis
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557628/
https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/150638-overview
https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/aortic-valve-stenosis
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000178.htm
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-valve-problems-and-disease/heart-valve-problems-and-causes/problem-aortic-valve-stenosis