What health issue is indicated by the term "stenosis"?

The term "stenosis" specifically refers to the narrowing of a passage within the body, which can occur in several contexts, such as blood vessels or heart valves. This narrowing can impede normal blood flow and lead to various cardiovascular issues. For instance, aortic stenosis is a condition where the aortic valve becomes narrowed, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood into the aorta.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the meaning of "stenosis." Widened blood vessels indicate vasodilation, which increases blood flow. Blocked arteries refer to an obstruction that prevents blood from passing, often due to plaque buildup, and heart valve leakage describes a situation where blood flows backward due to improper valve closure, which is distinctly different from narrowing. Understanding these terms is crucial in the context of cardiovascular health as they relate to different pathophysiological conditions.