Aussie seniors at risk of this 'silent killer' - here's what you need to know about aortic stenosis
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As the saying goes, knowledge is power.
This becomes especially pertinent when it comes to our health – the last thing anyone wants to do is experience a medical emergency or hear that they need to undergo a major operation immediately.
Therefore, preventative is always better than reactive when it comes to health!
That is why it's so important for our members over the age of 55 to be aware of aortic stenosis, a common but silent killer that could be even more deadly than initially thought.
According to a study by the University of Notre Dame Australia and the National Echo Database Australia, it is estimated that a concerning 100,000 Australians are living with a severe form of this condition.
On top of this, this cardiac illness is also believed to affect one in every eight older Australians.
So, what is aortic stenosis?
In simple terms, it's a narrowing of the aortic valve opening, making it tougher for blood to be pumped around the body.
As we grow older, it can get even worse, with up to 50 per cent of people with severe aortic stenosis symptoms dying within two years if their aortic valve is not replaced.
The University of Notre Dame Australia study found that people with even a mild case of aortic stenosis are far more likely to pass away within five years if left untreated compared to earlier estimates.
So if you happen to experience any of these symptoms, we recommend you book a health check as soon as you can:
Cardiologist and UNDA Professor David Playford says: 'Aortic stenosis is not something that's felt in the early stages. So, an individual who has aortic stenosis often has no idea that a problem is happening inside them.'
'The best way to pick it up is to actually listen with a stethoscope and then perform an echo (echocardiogram), which is an ultrasound of the heart, to diagnose it properly.'
Dietary and Lifestyle Suggestions for Preventive Aortic Stenosis
A good diet and healthy lifestyle can help to reduce the risk of developing aortic stenosis.
Some foods can even reduce the severity of the condition if it should arise. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, proteins, and whole grains may help to prevent the development of aortic stenosis.
Monounsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids (found in oily fish) may help to reduce the severity of symptoms. Adopting a healthier diet is one good step to reducing the risk of developing aortic stenosis.
Regular exercise is also highly recommended to help prevent the development of aortic stenosis.
Regular cardio exercises, such as walking, swimming, or biking, at least three times a week may help to reduce the risk and severity of aortic stenosis. Exercise not only helps to improve overall cardiovascular health but also strengthens the heart and helps to prevent the development of other conditions, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
Finally, quitting smoking can also be an important step in reducing the risk of developing aortic stenosis.
Smoking can increase the risk of atherosclerosis and other conditions that can contribute to the risk of developing aortic stenosis. Reducing the consumption of alcohol may have similar benefits, as excessive consumption can lead to high blood pressure and heart problems.
Making some lifestyle modifications can go a long way in helping to prevent aortic stenosis. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and reducing smoking and alcohol consumption can all be key steps in maintaining heart health and reducing the risk of developing aortic stenosis.
You read it here, members! Please take Professor Playford's advice and make an appointment with your GP to have your heart checked.
It could end up saving your life – and if you do spot any red flags, make sure you ask for an echocardiogram to ensure that you don't have aortic stenosis!
We hope you found this article useful! Check out the Heart Foundation's website to learn more about improving your heart health, and use the resources provided below to evaluate your own cardiovascular fitness.
Always be safe and healthy, everyone!
This becomes especially pertinent when it comes to our health – the last thing anyone wants to do is experience a medical emergency or hear that they need to undergo a major operation immediately.
Therefore, preventative is always better than reactive when it comes to health!
That is why it's so important for our members over the age of 55 to be aware of aortic stenosis, a common but silent killer that could be even more deadly than initially thought.
According to a study by the University of Notre Dame Australia and the National Echo Database Australia, it is estimated that a concerning 100,000 Australians are living with a severe form of this condition.
On top of this, this cardiac illness is also believed to affect one in every eight older Australians.
So, what is aortic stenosis?
In simple terms, it's a narrowing of the aortic valve opening, making it tougher for blood to be pumped around the body.
As we grow older, it can get even worse, with up to 50 per cent of people with severe aortic stenosis symptoms dying within two years if their aortic valve is not replaced.
The University of Notre Dame Australia study found that people with even a mild case of aortic stenosis are far more likely to pass away within five years if left untreated compared to earlier estimates.
So if you happen to experience any of these symptoms, we recommend you book a health check as soon as you can:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Fatigue (low energy)
- Light-headedness
- Dizziness or fainting
- Difficulty while exercising
- Swollen ankles and feet
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Cardiologist and UNDA Professor David Playford says: 'Aortic stenosis is not something that's felt in the early stages. So, an individual who has aortic stenosis often has no idea that a problem is happening inside them.'
'The best way to pick it up is to actually listen with a stethoscope and then perform an echo (echocardiogram), which is an ultrasound of the heart, to diagnose it properly.'
Dietary and Lifestyle Suggestions for Preventive Aortic Stenosis
A good diet and healthy lifestyle can help to reduce the risk of developing aortic stenosis.
Some foods can even reduce the severity of the condition if it should arise. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, proteins, and whole grains may help to prevent the development of aortic stenosis.
Monounsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids (found in oily fish) may help to reduce the severity of symptoms. Adopting a healthier diet is one good step to reducing the risk of developing aortic stenosis.
Regular exercise is also highly recommended to help prevent the development of aortic stenosis.
Regular cardio exercises, such as walking, swimming, or biking, at least three times a week may help to reduce the risk and severity of aortic stenosis. Exercise not only helps to improve overall cardiovascular health but also strengthens the heart and helps to prevent the development of other conditions, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
Finally, quitting smoking can also be an important step in reducing the risk of developing aortic stenosis.
Smoking can increase the risk of atherosclerosis and other conditions that can contribute to the risk of developing aortic stenosis. Reducing the consumption of alcohol may have similar benefits, as excessive consumption can lead to high blood pressure and heart problems.
Making some lifestyle modifications can go a long way in helping to prevent aortic stenosis. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and reducing smoking and alcohol consumption can all be key steps in maintaining heart health and reducing the risk of developing aortic stenosis.
Key Takeaways
- A new study by the University of Notre Dame Australia and National Echo Database Australia found that up to 100,000 Australians are living with a severe form of aortic stenosis.
- Aortic stenosis is a 'silent killer' because there are no symptoms in the early stages of the condition, and it can be deadly if left untreated.
- People aged 55 and over are at a higher risk of aortic stenosis, and it is recommended that they have regular heart checks.
It could end up saving your life – and if you do spot any red flags, make sure you ask for an echocardiogram to ensure that you don't have aortic stenosis!
We hope you found this article useful! Check out the Heart Foundation's website to learn more about improving your heart health, and use the resources provided below to evaluate your own cardiovascular fitness.
Always be safe and healthy, everyone!