Uncovering the Silent Heart Threat: Aortic Stenosis in Women
In the bustling capital of Indonesia, a silent heart issue is often overlooked, particularly among women – aortic stenosis. This condition, which has a worldwide prevalence of 2% to 3% of all heart conditions, can provoke symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, even leading to fainting spells. However, women’s experiences can differ significantly.
"Women often display atypical symptoms like fatigue or dizziness without fainting. They may even dismiss their symptoms," warned Asst. Prof. Ho Kay Woon, senior consultant at NHCS’s cardiology department, who has cared for many such patients.
This misdiagnosis and underdiagnosis occur for several reasons, pushing the condition to advanced stages. Without treatment, it can culminate in heart failure. "For advanced stages, the average survival rate without surgery is about two to five years," Assoc. Prof. Ho explained.
A Common but Often Missed Condition
Aortic stenosis affects about 3% of people over 70 and 10% over 80. With Singapore’s aging population and increased life expectancy, cases are projected to rise. einst for most cases, age is the culprit. As years pass, calcium deposits accumulate on heart valves, causing them to thicken and narrow.
Many patients have no symptoms at early stages, making routine checks with primary care physicians crucial. "Aortic stenosis is often undetected unless patients undergo routine health checks," Prof. Ho emphasized.
Early Detection Matters
Prof. Ho urges women to undergo annual checks. Early detection enables doctors to manage underlying conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes, and control cholesterol levels. Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, can also slow down the disease’s progression.
If a heart murmur is detected, an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart) confirms the diagnosis. Patients are then typically referred to a cardiologist. Early diagnosis allows for better management and prevention of complications.
Medications like diuretics reduce fluid buildup in the body, while others decrease heart rate, lower blood pressure, and widen blood vessels. However, they cannot stop the disease’s progression. Regular heart scans monitor the condition.
Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs
Poor awareness can lead to delayed diagnosis and damaging consequences. One patient under Prof. Ho’s care faced serious complications due to delayed treatment. "By the time some patients decide to seek help, the condition has progressed, increasing surgical risks," he said.
Prof. Ho emphasizes the importance of understanding the signs and seeking timely treatment. Awareness can save lives.
