Symptoms of aortic valve regurgitation

The aortic valve is located between the aorta and the left ventricle of the heart. It allows blood to flow in one direction, from the left ventricle to the aorta. When blood flows backward, it is called aortic regurgitation.

This article discusses the symptoms of aortic regurgitation and the conditions that require medical intervention.

Are there symptoms of aortic regurgitation in its early stages?

Studies indicate that early-stage aortic regurgitation may not present with any noticeable symptoms. 400;”>, and this is perhaps the main reason behind the delayed diagnosis in most cases. The first stage of the disease may extend for years before the ventricle and heart muscle weaken and symptoms begin to appear gradually.

First symptoms of aortic regurgitation appear with exertion

The initial symptoms of aortic regurgitation begin to appear with exertion, such as a throbbing sensation in the chest or neck, palpitations, mild shortness of breath, and extreme fatigue compared to the amount of effort exerted. These symptoms reflect the beginning of left ventricular strain due toaortic regurgitation.

Advanced symptoms of aortic regurgitation

At this stage, the regurgitation progresses and leads to dilation of the aortic valve and increased pressure on the heart, and the patient experiences symptoms The following:

Swelling of the feet and ankles.
Severe and painful palpitations without exertion.
Frequent dizziness and fainting. A significant decrease in physical activity.

Advanced aortic valve regurgitation symptoms worsen during sleep.

Nighttime shortness of breath is a symptom indicating severe aortic valve regurgitation. The patient wakes up from sleep due to difficulty breathing and also experiences difficulty breathing when lying down, especially on their left side.

These symptoms may resemble those of href=”http://dr-ahmedmahgoub.com/2025/12/17/%d8%b6%d9%8a%d9%82-%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%b5%d9%85%d8%a7%d9%85-%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%a3%d9%88%d8%b1%d8%b7%d9%8a/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Aortic stenosisTherefore, it is essential to consult a doctor early to carefully determine the cause of these symptoms.

What are the advantages of seeing a doctor immediately after the appearance of symptoms of aortic valve regurgitation?

When the symptoms ofvalve regurgitation begin If aortic regurgitation appears, you should see a cardiologist as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment help prevent damage to the heart muscle and protect the patient from developing heart failure.

How to Treat Symptoms of Aortic Valve Regurgitation

Treatment for aortic valve regurgitation symptoms includes regular follow-up with a doctor and adherence to prescribed medications that regulate heart function. The following steps can also help manage associated symptoms:

Suitable Sleeping Position

To reduce regurgitation symptoms during sleep, such as shortness of breath, it is recommended to sleep with your chest elevated on pillows and avoid sleeping on your left side.

It is also advisable to practice slow breathing exercises before bedtime. This is done by inhaling deeply, holding the air for two seconds, then exhaling through the mouth and repeating this exercise several times.

Dividing Daily Tasks
Distributing daily tasks that require effort throughout the day helps control the symptoms associated with reflux. It is essential to take sufficient rest between tasks and to stop working if you experience heart palpitations or dizziness.

Nutrition
Attention should be paid to the meals that a patient with reflux eats daily, and the following should be considered:

Reduce salt intake as much as possible. Avoid hydrogenated oils and fried foods, and replace them with healthy fats such as olive oil and raw nuts.

Avoid canned goods and preservatives.

Avoid processed meats.

Eat fresh fruits and vegetables instead of processed sugars and sweets.