What is an expected early symptom of aortic regurgitation?

An expected early symptom of aortic regurgitation is exercise intolerance. Aortic regurgitation occurs when the aortic valve does not close properly, allowing blood to flow back into the left ventricle during diastole. This leads to volume overload of the left ventricle, which may initially compensate by increasing its size and contractility. However, as the condition progresses, the heart's ability to pump effectively can diminish, particularly during physical exertion when the body demands increased cardiac output.

Patients often notice that they become easily fatigued or feel less capable of performing physical activities that were previously manageable. This exercise intolerance is an early indicator reflecting the heart's compromised function in response to the added strain of increased blood flow and pressure.

In contrast, chest pain during exertion can occur in cases of coronary artery disease or ischemia but is not a classic early symptom of aortic regurgitation. Sudden dizziness when standing may indicate orthostatic hypotension or other conditions but is not directly associated with aortic regurgitation. Dizziness during physical activity may also occur with various cardiovascular issues but is less specific than the exercise intolerance that relates to aortic regurgitation itself.