Know the Facts
Aortic Arch conditions are abnormalities in the structure of the arteries that branch off the top of the aorta. These abnormalities can eventually block the vessels that branch off the aorta leading to decreased blood flow to areas of the body. Narrowing of the vessels caused by atherosclerosis is a main cause of reduced blood flow. The weakening of these vessels can also lead to potential aneurysmal formation. Another rarer cause may be vasculitits (Takayasu’s arteritis).
Symptoms
Your symptoms may vary depending on the artery affected, they may include:
- Decreased pulse
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting
- Stroke-like symptoms
- Shortness of breath
- Pain in chest or extremities
- Arrhythmias (abnormal heart beat)
- Blood pressure changes
Risk Factors
- Increasing age
- Family history
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Hyperlipidemia
- Tobacco use
- Male sex
- Connective tissue disorders
- Heart disease
- Physical inactivity
- Obesity
Treatments
Lifestyle modifications, medications, endarterectomy, angioplasty with stent or bypass