Going into detail on what this term means and how it relates to health guidelines. This article may be incomplete.
Coarctation of the aorta is a congenital heart defect characterized by a narrowing of the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. This narrowing restricts blood flow, leading to increased pressure in the heart and reduced blood flow to the lower part of the body. The condition can vary in severity, with some cases causing serious complications like high blood pressure, heart failure, or aneurysm if left untreated. Coarctation of the aorta often presents in newborns or young children but can sometimes go undetected until adulthood. Symptoms can include high blood pressure in the arms, weak or absent pulses in the lower extremities, chest pain, and leg cramps. Treatment may involve surgery to repair the narrowing or insertion of a stent to widen the constricted area. Regular follow-up care is essential to monitor and manage this condition effectively.