Feeling breathless? Dizzy? Fatigued? Dont assume its your age, it could be your heart [1,2]

As we age, our bodies go through many physical changes. You may not be able to climb stairs as easily, or you may notice discomfort or inability to participate in normal daily activities.

But sometimes, these changes may be signs of an underlying medical condition, such as heart valve disease[1] - a common condition in which the heart valves do not work the way they should.[3] Heart valve disease can reduce the amount of blood to your body. If you body is not getting enough oxygen, this can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, lightheadedness, chest pain and difficulty exercising.[1]

Heart valve disease (aortic stenosis, mitral valve regurgitation and tricuspid regurgitation) impacts 2.5pc of Australians, rising to 8.5pc of over-65s.[3] Aortic Stenosis is one of the most prevalent and serious conditions impacting elderly people in Australia. It is estimated that one in eight senior Australians has Aortic Stenosis.[4] Unfortunately, up to 50pc of people who develop severe aortic stenosis symptoms will not survive within two years, unless they have a valve replacement.[5] Early diagnosis is therefore essential for survival.

Diagnosis of aortic stenosis starts with listening to the heart [6], but 4 in 10 Australians say their doctor rarely or never checks their heart with a stethoscope, making the illness undetected, undiagnosed, and untreated.[7] If you are experiencing signs or symptoms reflective of heart valve disease, ask your GP to listen to your heart next time you see them.

To learn more about heart valve disease, go to NewHeartValve.com.au

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