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Definition
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.
Causes
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.
Risk Factors
Factors that increase your chances of having aortic coarctation include:
- Gender: male
- Turner’s syndrome
- Family history of aortic coarctation
Symptoms
Aortic coarctation may or may not have symptoms. Symptoms may include:
- Cold legs and feet
- Shortness of breath, especially with exercise
- Lightheadedness
- Leg cramps after exercise
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Nosebleeds
- Fainting
- Chest pain
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.
Images may be taken of your internal structures. This can be done with:
- Chest x-ray
- Magnetic resonance imaging
- Computerized tomography (CT) scan
- Echocardiogram
- Cardiac catheterization
Treatment
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include the following:
Surgery
The narrow section of the aorta can be removed surgically. The two healthy ends can be reconnected.
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Balloon Angioplasty
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.
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.
