Final answer:
Aortic valve stenosis implies that the heart valves have become rigid, often due to calcification. It is common in the elderly and may require surgical intervention if conditions such as myocardial infarction occur. Treatments can range from lifestyle changes to surgery, including angioplasty, stent placement, and coronary bypass.
Step-by-step explanation:
Aortic valve narrowing, also known as stenosis, is a condition characterized by the heart valves becoming rigid, often through calcification. This can interfere with the valve's normal function, making the heart work harder to pump blood and possibly leading to heart weakening. Aortic stenosis is a common condition in the elderly, affecting approximately 2 percent of people over 65, with rates increasing to around 4 percent in those over 85 years of age. The condition may deteriorate rapidly if a myocardial infarction occurs, tearing the chordae tendineae or killing the papillary muscle, necessitating immediate surgical intervention.
Arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis are major risk factors, which progress over time and are often marked by fatty streaks visible in artery vessels even from childhood. Lifestyle changes, such as adopting heart-healthy habits, and medical interventions like cholesterol and blood pressure medications are used to manage these conditions. Surgical options include angioplasty with stent placement, endarterectomy, and coronary bypass to address blocked coronary arteries.