Steve's Journal

Klara Čičić  Dear Steve, the anwser isn't a simple one, the decision when to intervene is hard and it is based on many factors. Your cardiologist should be able to tell you that, based on diagnostic measurements, your history, current symptoms etc. I would recommend reading and educating yourself from this webpage as much as you can so you can be informed decision co-maker. 

Susan Lynn  Good advice from Klara! There's no definitive timing and many differing medical opinions. You want to be sure your heart isn't suffering any permanent damage. Plenty of people have minimal or no symptoms, but require surgery sooner rather than later. Best of luck!

Greg Lewis  Hi Steve! Honestly, that is a question for a doctor, only.  They need to know your symptoms, and that you are working out, with it limiting you. This is because they have the equipment, and knowledge to see that you are not entering into serious heart problems here. I would do this asap.

Rita Savelis  I'm sorry you have to go through this. There is no real tipping point. It's an art, not a science. Everyone will have an opinion. Some never have symptoms but in their ultrasounds progression can be seen. Some have symptoms but their ultrasounds are stable. Deciding when to have surgery can be difficult. I personally would wait as long as possible. I had surgery 8 years ago on 2 valves. All my pre-tests were done in advance so that I would be ready. Then it was my choice when to have surgery. It was like jumpng off a high dive making that decision. Take care.