If and when the aortic root narrows (stenosis), it can enlarge the left ventrical (pumping chamber) due to an increase of gradient pressure. An enlarged heart can cause arrhythmatic problems (irregular heartbeats) and if untreated the enlarged heart can/will enlarge to a degree that will severly reduce contractility and the heart will fail to pump sufficient blood/oxygen to meet system's demand with congested heart failure. Also an
enlarged LV can cause mitral valve regurgitation that will put an additional strain on the heart.
If the stenosis is due to previous rheumatic fever, the stenosis is treated by balloon valvuloplasty, a procedure performed in the cardiac catheterization laboratory by interventional cardiologists. Using a catheter with a balloon on the end, the balloon is expanded inside the valve "stretching" it open.
Or stiff, fused, inflexible valve leaflets that lead to the narrowing of the aortic valve, which limits or blocks the blood flow. Aortic valve stenosis occurs when calcium is deposited on the valve leaflets, limiting their mobility. If you have severe aortic valve stenosis, you'll usually need surgery to replace the valve. Left unchecked, aortic valve stenosis can lead to serious heart problems.
Many patients with aortic valve disease are asymptomatic (have no symptoms), even when the stenosis (narrowing) is severe. But initial symptoms of aortic valve disease usually include:
Fatigue
Loss of energy
Swelling of the ankles
Palpitations (extra or skipped heart beats)
More advanced symptoms may include:
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Loss of consciousness