The heart has four chambers and four valves. The valves open and close to keep blood flowing through the heart. One of these valves, the aortic valve, usually has three flaps, or leaflets. But sometimes people are born with an aortic valve that has two flaps. This is called a bicuspid aortic valve.

A bicuspid aortic valve makes certain heart problems, like aortic valve stenosis and aortic valve regurgitation, more likely.

In aortic valve stenosis, the valve has narrowed. Your heart has to work harder to pump blood throughout your body. Symptoms may include chest pain, dizziness, fainting, or shortness of breath.

In aortic valve regurgitation, the valve does not close properly. Some of the blood leaks back (regurgitates) through the valve into the heart. Your heart has to work harder to pump blood throughout your body. Symptoms may include weakness and tiredness, shortness of breath, or an uneven heartbeat.

Although you have a bicuspid heart valve, your heart can work normally. But you have a higher chance that you might get stenosis or regurgitation as you get older. Do your best to keep your heart as healthy as possible. Talk to your doctor about how often you need checkups.