"How Does Aortic Valve Insufficiency Affect Lifespan?"

The Impact of Different Degrees of Aortic Valve Insufficiency on Lifespan

The severity of aortic valve insufficiency varies, resulting in different impacts on lifespan. Mild to moderate insufficiency has minimal effects on lifespan, whereas severe insufficiency, if left untreated, can significantly affect lifespan.

1. Mild Aortic Valve Insufficiency

Commonly observed in normal individuals, mild insufficiency is often detected through ultrasound as trace or mild insufficiency. These individuals typically do not require specific interventions and only require long-term follow-up to ensure no changes occur. In the absence of other underlying conditions, mild insufficiency does not usually impact lifespan.

2. Moderate Aortic Valve Insufficiency

Moderate insufficiency necessitates further examination to identify underlying causes, such as hypertension or congenital bicuspid aortic valve malformation. If comorbidities are present, like moderate mitral valve insufficiency with symptoms, medical therapy may be considered alongside follow-up observations. The goal of medical therapy is to manage the condition and prevent further deterioration.

3. Severe Aortic Valve Insufficiency

Severe insufficiency is often accompanied by pronounced symptoms and can lead to alterations in cardiac structure and function, such as cardiac enlargement with left ventricular end-diastolic diameter exceeding 55mm or even 60mm. In such cases, medical therapy serves as an adjunct, and surgical intervention is recommended as soon as possible. Surgical options include minimally invasive procedures and open-chest surgeries. Post-surgery, most patients can restore normal cardiac structure and function, enabling many to live fulfilling lives into their eighties and nineties.

4. The Importance of Active Treatment

For severe aortic valve insufficiency, active treatment is crucial. Untreated, cardiac structure and function deteriorate, potentially leading to severe cardiac disease and even life-threatening conditions. Surgical intervention not only alleviates symptoms but also extends lifespan and enhances quality of life.

5. Lifestyle Adjustments

Patients with mild, moderate, or severe aortic valve insufficiency should all prioritize lifestyle adjustments. This includes maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding high salt and fat content, engaging in moderate exercise, refraining from overexertion, and undergoing regular check-ups to promptly identify and address potential issues.

6. Mental Health Maintenance

Cardiac issues often inflict psychological pressure, with anxiety and depression potentially impeding treatment outcomes. Patients are encouraged to maintain a positive mindset and seek professional psychological support, if necessary, for effective coping.

By embracing these points, we hope to foster a clearer understanding of aortic valve insufficiency, encouraging timely and appropriate measures for maintaining cardiac health and prolonging lifespan.