coarctation of the aorta

The narrowing occurs most often distal to the origin of the left subclavian artery. Coarctation occurs in approximately 7% of patients with congenital heart disease and is twice as common in males. Surgical correction is most often required.

Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, fainting, nosebleeds, diminished pulses in lower extremities and muscle cramps in legs with activity. There may be no symptoms in some individuals.