What message indicates progressive symptoms in older patients with aortic stenosis?

Exertional dyspnea is a key indicator of progressive symptoms in older patients with aortic stenosis. Aortic stenosis leads to a narrowing of the aortic valve, which restricts blood flow from the heart during periods of increased demand, such as physical activity. As the condition worsens, the heart struggles to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs, particularly during exertion, which results in difficulty breathing. This symptom can appear relatively early and tends to worsen as the stenosis becomes more severe.

The progression of aortic stenosis symptoms typically follows a pattern where exertional dyspnea may come before more severe manifestations like angina, syncope, or fatigue. While each of these symptoms can indeed occur with aortic stenosis, exertional dyspnea specifically highlights the changing capacity of the heart to function effectively during physical activity, making it a critical marker for disease progression in older patients.