Re: Bicuspid Aortic Valve

Posted By Tina on June 18, 1999 at 15:20:31
I am a 31 year old female with a Bicuspid Aortic Valve and previous coartation repair as a child.  I, of course, have aortic stenosis at that site.  I was told as a child that I would probably have to have a valve replacement in my thirties.  I have been experiencing some mild chest pain, lightheadedness (with mild exercise) and slight nausea with this.  All of these symptoms are off & on.  I was never told what the symptoms would be if this bicuspid valve and aortic stenosis should become a problem. Could you tell me if I should be concerned or not, and what the symptoms I may experience might be.

[Hank-Eyring]

Posted By Hank Eyring on June 23, 1999 at 13:32:57
Hi Tina,
You and have a bit in common.  I am 32 and also had a Bicuspid aortic valve until 3 months ago.  (It had to be replaced with a mechanical valve)  I also had some of the problems you are experiencing, namely the lightheadedness.  Don't be alarmed though, my main problem was that I got a blood infection that infected my valve and damaged it.
I just wanted you to know that even a worse case scenario of having your valve replaced is not the end of the world..  I was quite discouraged when I found out that I needed the surgery.  Now, 3 months after valve replacement, I feel better than I have felt in many years, I am back to work, running miles per day on the treadmill and playing racquetball several times a week.  These things were not possible before.  The surgery was not as bad as I thought it would be.
I hope this will help you if you are faced with replacement surgery...

[Ronie__0__0]

Posted By Ronnie on July 04, 1999 at 19:52:45
Your symptoms sound alot like mine, but were induced by stress.
I became alarmed when I knew in my mind and soul that it was my heart. (I lost my father at the age of 54 to a heart attack and my brother at the age of 47 to heart disease.)
I hate to say it, but, yes, your Dr. will probably start you on a regim of tests to be followed up by restrictions until the surgery.
I don't plan on having mine done until Nov. when i can take layoff and not lose alot of income.
Good luck











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