What caused my aortic coarctation?
It is not possible to determine the exact cause of aortic coarctation in a particular patient, but we have found that about 70% of patients have the same risk factor prior to the onset of the disease: hypertensive disease. Some people also have structural aortic abnormalities or genetic abnormalities prior to the disease.
Who should be screened for risk factors for aortic coarctation?
In fact, the percentage of the population with structural or genetic aortic abnormalities is very small, and current technology does not allow for screening of the entire population. However, if a treating physician suspects that a patient has one of these structural or genetic abnormalities, he or she should recommend that the patient be screened for it.
Is aortic coarctation a genetic disease?
There is no way to know for sure whether or not entrapment is a genetic disease. It is true that there are some families with multiple cases of aortic aneurysm that look like a genetic influence. However, more often patients are disseminated cases and there are no patients with similar disease in the family.
Does my family need to be screened?
It is recommended that you actively consult your physician for screening if either of the following two conditions exist.
There are other aortic aneurysm patients in the family; a relative has died prematurely from heart disease.
How long will I have to live?
We cannot budget the length of an individual’s life, but experts believe that your life expectancy will be largely unaffected by the clamping as long as you do the following
Regular treatment; good blood pressure control; and limiting heavy physical activity;
Will I become disabled? Will I be able to continue working?
The disease itself and the treatment process may result in disability, but recovered patients can perform most light work.
Heavy work is not generally recommended unless approved by a physician.
Can a recovered patient play sports?
Most patients are able to return to their pre-disease state and are physically capable of playing sports. However, it is important to note that
(1) Light to moderate sports can be performed with the consent of the doctor.
However, it is important to be careful when playing strenuous sports, as they can increase the tension of the aorta and cause dilatation of the weak aorta or even recurrence of aortic coarctation.
Can I still dive?
Diving is generally not recommended as it increases the risk of death.
Can I still drink alcohol?
Patients can drink alcohol in small amounts and in moderation, but should be aware that alcohol may affect the effectiveness of the medications they are taking.
Am I at risk for reoccurrence of aortic coarctation?
Patients are at risk for re-clamping or progression of the clamping, usually within 2 years of the onset of the disease. However, patients with well-controlled blood pressure and limited physical activity are less likely to reoccur. It is recommended that patients receive imaging every 3-6 months for 2 years and every 1-2 years after 2 years.
Will my vision be affected by aortic coarctation?
It is possible for vision to be affected. It is common in patients with entrapment involving the carotid artery or in patients who have had a stroke as a result of the entrapment.
Will I be able to get pregnant again after having the disease?
Please consider carefully whether you want to continue your pregnancy! Because pregnancy increases the tension in the aortic wall and thus increases the risk. In people with connective tissue disease, pregnancy is very likely to lead to aortic coarctation.
Can I still have sex?
Is sex equivalent to sports. Generally the intensity is acceptable, but never try to have sex too intensely.
What will the recovery process after surgery show?
Surgical procedures are relatively traumatic. After surgery, patients often feel significant pain and weakness. This sensation may last for several months, but most patients can fully recover in a few months, regaining their previous strength and energy.
Why do I hear a “ticking, ticking” sound after the mechanical valve is replaced?
This is the normal sound of the mechanical valve switching on and off, and is often easy to hear in the dead of night, but you will get used to the sound over time.