Doctors most commonly use an echocardiogram (echo) to diagnose aortic valve stenosis and to monitor your condition.
When should I get an echocardiogram?
Given the diagnostic power of the test, you should have an echocardiogram to diagnose or rule out stenosis if you have:
- No symptoms, but your doctor hears a heart murmur that is strongly suggestive of aortic valve stenosis.
- Symptoms that may point to stenosis.
- Other conditions, such as heart failure or atrial fibrillation, which are potential complications of aortic valve stenosis.
Severity of aortic stenosis |
Frequency of echo |
|---|---|
| Mild | Every 3 to 5 years |
| Moderate | Every 1 to 2 years |
| Severe | Every 6 to 12 months |
Credits
| Author | Robin Parks, MS |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | George Philippides, MD - Cardiology |
| Last Updated | November 14, 2007 |
Author:Robin Parks, MS
Last Updated: 11/14/2007
