If your doctor suspects aortic stenosis based on your symptoms and physical exam, the next step is usually an echocardiogram. This non-invasive test uses sound waves to show images of your heart. It creates a visualization of the aortic valve, so your doctor can view the severity of the narrowing and determine how blood flow is affected. Heart chamber size and thickness can be analyzed, so your cardiologist can see how your heart handles the extra workload caused by the narrowed valve.

An electrocardiogram, or ECG, may be performed to record your heart’s electrical activity. While not specific to aortic stenosis, an ECG can show signs of left ventricular hypertrophy (thickening of the heart muscle), which often occurs as the heart works harder to pump blood through the narrowed valve. It can also detect any heart rhythm abnormalities that might be associated with aortic stenosis.

A chest X-ray might be ordered to check for signs of heart enlargement or calcification of the aortic valve. In advanced cases of aortic stenosis, the X-ray might show changes in the shape and size of your heart or signs of fluid in your lungs, which can occur if the condition is causing heart failure.

In some cases, your doctor may recommend cardiac catheterization. This invasive procedure involves threading a thin tube through a blood vessel to your heart to measure the pressure difference across the aortic valve. It can provide definitive information about the severity of the stenosis and can also assess the condition of your coronary arteries. While not always necessary for diagnosis, cardiac catheterization is often performed before valve replacement surgery to check for any co-existing coronary artery disease.

Your doctor might order a cardiac CT scan or cardiac MRI to obtain more detailed images of your heart valves. These advanced imaging techniques can provide highly detailed, three-dimensional images of your heart and valves. They’re particularly useful for planning treatment, especially if valve replacement is being considered.

If you have aortic stenosis but aren’t experiencing symptoms at rest, your doctor might recommend an exercise stress test. This test monitors your heart’s function while you exercise, typically on a treadmill or stationary bike. It can help reveal symptoms or heart rhythm changes that might not be apparent when you’re at rest, providing important information about how the stenosis is affecting your heart during physical activity.

If you have other questions, we are happy to help. CVG provides comprehensive, compassionate care that features these benefits:

Comprehensive care from top cardiologists. Please review the details about cardiac tests and procedures on this page on our website. With this information and our Atlanta cardiologists’ expertise, we can work together to ensure your heart health. At all CVG locations, you can get ten heart care services. These include full diagnostic tests, treatments, and procedures that cover every aspect of cardiac care.

State-of-the-art, expert cardiac care that treats you with dignity. When you make an appointment, we focus on your specific needs. Your voice will be heard as an active participant in your care. We treat your heart and provide care with dignity and respect.

Open communication makes everything better. You can get the care you need at CVG because we clearly explain your treatment options and use an easy-to-understand billing system. We make it simple for you to talk to us, view your records, and get test results.

CVG offers eleven convenient Atlanta-area locations. Whichever CVG location you choose, you will find top cardiologists dedicated to providing exceptional care. We will encourage you and support your health throughout your time with us.

To learn more, please call (770) 962-0399 or 678-582-8586. You may also request an appointment online. If you have an emergency, don’t contact us online; please call 911.