The aorta is the main artery carrying oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the body. Aortic coarctation is the narrowing of the aorta which slows or blocks the blood flow. It is often associated with other heart and vascular conditions, like abnormal heart valves or blood vessel outpouching. These conditions carry a risk of additional future problems.
Aortic coarctation is a congenital heart defect, which means it is present at birth. It occurs because of a problem with the development of the aorta while the fetus in the womb.
Factors that increase your chances of having aortic coarctation include:
Gender: maleTurner’s syndromeFamily history of aortic coarctation
Aortic coarctation may or may not have symptoms. Symptoms may include:
Cold legs and feetShortness of breath, especially with exerciseLightheadednessLeg cramps after exerciseHeadachesFatigueNosebleedsFaintingChest painTalk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include the following:
The narrow section of the aorta can be removed surgically. The two healthy ends can be reconnected.
A tiny catheter tube is inserted into a blood vessel in the leg and threaded up to the aorta. There, a balloon is inflated to expand the narrow area. A stent may be placed to keep the area open.
Since aortic coarctation is a congenital defect, it cannot be prevented.
Last reviewed May 2013 by Michael J. Fucci, DO;
Michael Woods, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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