Dr Viveka Kumar: Why breathlessness while walking isn’t just ageing. Many people think getting short of breath while walking or feeling tired easily is a normal part of getting older, but Dr Viveka Kumar, chairman of cardiology at Max Super Speciality Hospital in Saket, Delhi, warns that these symptoms could signal a serious heart condition.
In a recent Instagram post, Dr Viveka explained that breathlessness while walking and easy fatigue are not always signs of ageing. Instead, they may indicate aortic valve stenosis, a condition where the heart’s aortic valve becomes narrowed. When this happens, the heart must work harder to pump blood throughout the body, making it crucial to pay attention and seek a detailed heart evaluation without delay.
Other symptoms of aortic valve stenosis include chest heaviness, dizziness, and fainting, according to Dr Viveka. He emphasized that ignoring these signs can be dangerous and that early diagnosis is key to protecting your heart.
For treatment, Dr Viveka suggests a minimally invasive procedure called transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) for select patients. This option does not require opening the chest, but the right treatment is determined only after a full cardiac evaluation. He added, “If these symptoms recur, do not ignore them—early diagnosis can protect your heart.”
In conclusion, Dr Viveka Kumar’s advice is clear: breathlessness while walking is not always a harmless part of ageing and should not be overlooked. Getting a timely check-up can make a significant difference in managing heart health and preventing serious complications.