Why Does Your Heart Valve Narrow?

Heart valve narrowing, also known as aortic stenosis, occurs when the aortic valve, which controls blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body, narrows or becomes blocked. This can result in reduced blood flow, increased pressure within the heart, and a range of symptoms. Common causes of heart valve narrowing include:

1. Age-Related Thickening: With ageing, the leaflets of the aortic valve can become thicker and less flexible, leading to gradual narrowing.

2. Calcification: Calcium deposits can build up on the aortic valve leaflets, making them stiff and causing the valve to narrow.

3. Rheumatic Fever: This is a complication of untreated streptococcal throat infections, which can lead to inflammation and scarring of the heart valves, including the aortic valve.

4. Bicuspid Aortic Valve: Some people are born with a bicuspid aortic valve, which means they have two cusps or leaflets instead of three. A bicuspid valve is more prone to developing stenosis over time.

5. Congenital Abnormalities: Certain heart valve defects are present at birth, including congenital aortic valve stenosis. These defects might cause narrowing, but many individuals can live with moderate forms of congenital valve conditions into adulthood.

6. Endocarditis: An infection of the heart valves, known as endocarditis, can damage the aortic valve's structure and lead to narrowing.