I have a leak in my aortic valve.  That is caused by the AS.  I found out back in 2006 when I went to my first Rheumy that I had a murmer.  Went to WVU hospital and they ran some tests including an internal x ray, or TEE, and found that it was a mild leak.  I was supposed to go back the following year but put it off too long.  Just went back last month to the WVU Heart Institute.  They are awesome there.  Didn't have any invasive tests like before.  Just EEG and ultrasounds.  The leak has gone from mild to mild/moderate.  That isn't too bad.  Good luck and take care!  If you think you are having a problem make sure you get it checked!

So do all the women in your family have this?  Grandmother, Greatgrandmother.  Anyone else?

My great grandmother died of a heart problem when I was a child. SOmething in the back of my head has always told me I will face the same fate.  I am currently trying to show my grandmother the genetic pattern of this disease in ou family and encouraging her to go to a cardiologist.  You can bookmark my site www.RhNegativeRegistry.com and look for updates on the Medical & research page which relate to AS and other issues.  Good Luck and Stay Healthy & Active!