What is Coarctation of the Aorta?
Coarctation of the Aorta (CoA) is the narrowing of the aorta, the larger blood vessel that branches off from the heart and brings oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body. If coarctation of the aorta occurs, the heart has to work harder to pump blood through the narrow section of the aorta. Coarctation of the aorta may occur anywhere along the aorta, but the coarctation is usually located near a blood vessel called the ductus arteriosus.
Typically, coarctation of the aorta is present at birth. Coarctation of the aorta can vary from mild to very severe, and is oftentimes not detected until adulthood. There are usually other heart defects present along with coarctation of the aorta. Coarctation of the aorta requires careful attention and follow-up from infancy through adulthood.
Symptoms of Coarctation of the Aorta (CoA)
The signs and symptoms of coarctation of the aorta depend on the severity. Children with severe aortic narrowing will often exhibit signs and symptoms earlier in life, while mild cases may not be recognized until later in adulthood.Babies with severe coarctation of the aorta usually begin having signs and symptoms shortly after birth. Symptoms of coarctation of the aorta may include some or all of the following:
• Difficulty breathing
• Pale skin
• Irritability
• Heavy sweating
If untreated, aortic coarctation in babies may lead to heart failure and death.
Causes of Coarctation of the Aorta (CoA) – The Use of Antidepressants During Pregnancy
Coarctation of the aorta (CoA) typically occurs when the pulmonary valve does not grow correctly during fetal development. Other heart abnormalities are sometimes present at birth (congenital) in infants who have coarctation of the aorta. The use of SSRI antidepressants such as Zoloft, Paxil, Prozac, Celexa, or Lexapro during all or part of the pregnancy may significantly increase the risk of congenital heart defects such as coartation of the aorta (CoA).
Coarctation of the Aorta (CoA) – Lawsuit
If your child was born with coarctation of the aorta (CoA) or other congenital heart defects and an SSRI such as Zoloft, Prozac, Lexapro, Paxil or Celexa was taken during all or part of the pregnancy, then call now for a free SSRI Antidepressant Lawsuit Consultation. You and your child may have a legal right to monetary compensation for damages and injuries. Call 1-800-883-9858 or fill out the form on the right for your free legal consultation.