Aortic regurgitation means the aortic valve doesn’t close tightly, so blood leaks backward into the heart. The heart compensates by pumping harder, but over time the extra workload shows up in everyday activities. Pounding pulse is the first clue. You feel your heart beat in your neck, head, or even your ears when you lie down. Fatigue creeps in. Legs feel heavy, and you need to rest after light chores that used to be easy. Shortness of breath appears with activity. You can’t finish a sentence while walking or have to pause on stairs. Night-time cough or wheezing shows up.... Learn more