Key Facts

Here are some Key Facts about Aortic Stenosis.

• Most aortic stenosis is caused by calcification—when calcium deposits form on the aortic valve.

• Risk for aortic stenosis increases with age.

• Risk factors are having a family history of heart valve disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, a congenital heart defect where there are only two valve leaflets (bicuspid aortic valve), rheumatic fever, smoking and diabetes.

• People who have severe, symptomatic aortic stenosis typically will need valve replacement which can be done through surgery or, if the patient qualifies, through cardiac catheterization.