Bicuspid aortic valve

Overview

About 1 to 2 in 100 people are born with a bicuspid aortic valve.

It can narrow or leak over time, and the aorta can widen, so regular echos matter.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Bicuspid aortic valve
• Told I have a heart murmur

Less common

• Shortness of breath later

Look up a symptom: Getting winded easily with activity or stairs · Told I have a heart murmur

When to get medical care

Causes

Born with it.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
• It can run in families. Tell your doctor if a parent, brother, or sister has it.

Who is more likely to get it

• Family history

Possible complications

• Heart murmur

Diagnosis

An echocardiogram.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Echo:

Treatment

Keep follow-ups.

Self-care

• Control blood pressure
• Keep blood pressure controlled
• Tell doctors before dental work if advised

Valve repair or replacement later if needed.

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Control blood pressure

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a cardiologist (heart doctor).

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

• American Heart Association: Plain-language heart information and a support network for patients.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Families: Close relatives may need an echo.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Many live normal lives.

Many people live normal lives.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• How often do I need an echo?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Bicuspid aortic valve