Aortic Regurgitation

Aortic regurgitation is a heart condition where the valve between the heart's main pumping chamber and the aorta does not close properly. This causes blood to flow backward into the heart instead of moving forward to the body. The condition affects the cardiovascular system and can lead to symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, and a feeling of a rapid heartbeat. Over time, the heart has to work harder to pump blood, which can cause it to enlarge and weaken. Early stages may have no symptoms, but as the condition worsens, it can significantly impact daily activities and overall health.

Aortic regurgitation is defined as the incompetence of the aortic valve, resulting in the retrograde flow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole. This leads to volume overload of the left ventricle, causing left ventricular dilation and hypertrophy as compensatory mechanisms. Common causes include bicuspid aortic valve, infective endocarditis, rheumatic heart disease, and aortic root dilation from conditions like Marfan syndrome or hypertension. The major clinical significance lies in the progressive left ventricular dysfunction and eventual heart failure if untreated. Physical exam findings often include a high-pitched diastolic murmur and signs of increased stroke volume. Chronic aortic regurgitation can remain asymptomatic for years before symptoms develop.