Valvular stenosis is a condition in which there is a narrowing, stiffening, thickening, fusion or blockage of one or more valves of the heart. As a result, the defective valve can interfere with the smooth passage of blood. Valvular stenosis may occur in any of the four valves of the heart: the aortic valve, the mitral valve, the tricuspid valve or the pulmonic valve.

Valvular stenosis may be a congenital defect, meaning it is present at birth. It also may be acquired after birth from certain medical conditions, such as rheumatic fever.

Mild valvular stenosis may not show any symptoms, but as the stenosis worsens, symptoms of heart failure may develop (e.g., shortness of breath or dizziness). Therefore, regular physical checkups are very important. It is also important to report any unusual symptoms (e.g., fainting) because these may be signs of more severe valvular stenosis.

Valvular stenosis may be first suspected from a heart murmur detected by a physician through a stethoscope. Tests that may be used to diagnose the type and severity of valvular stenosis include electrocardiogram (EKG), chest x-ray and echocardiogram.

According to the American Heart Association's 2006 Heart and Stroke Statistical Update, valvular heart disease is responsible for more than 19,900 deaths each year in the United States and is a contributing factor in about 42,600 deaths. The majority of these cases involve disorders of the aortic valve (62 percent) and the mitral valve (14 percent). Deaths due to pulmonic and tricuspid valve disorders are more rare (.05 and .08 percent, respectively).

People who have valvular stenosis may need to take antibiotics before undergoing any type of medical, surgical or dental procedure. Other treatments for valvular stenosis may include medications such as anticoagulants and surgeries to perform heart valve repair or replacement.