Going into detail on what this term means and how it relates to health guidelines. This article may be incomplete.
Aortic sclerosis is a condition characterized by the thickening or hardening of the aortic valve. This condition typically occurs as a part of the aging process and is considered a benign finding in the absence of significant symptoms. Aortic sclerosis is different from aortic stenosis, which involves a more severe narrowing of the aortic valve opening that can lead to symptoms and complications if left untreated.
The thickening of the aortic valve in aortic sclerosis is often due to the buildup of calcium deposits on the valve leaflets. These deposits can cause the valve to become stiff and less flexible, potentially leading to decreased valve function over time. While aortic sclerosis itself may not produce noticeable symptoms, it can sometimes progress to aortic stenosis, especially in older adults.
Routine medical evaluations, such as echocardiograms, can help detect aortic sclerosis and monitor any progression of the condition. Management of aortic sclerosis typically involves regular monitoring by a healthcare provider to watch for any signs of worsening valve function. In cases where aortic sclerosis progresses to aortic stenosis and starts causing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting episodes, further interventions such as medication or valve replacement surgery may be necessary.