Which Of The Following Statements About Coarctation Of The Aorta Is Correct?

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Multiple Choice

Which Of The Following Statements About Coarctation Of The Aorta Is Correct?

Coarctation of the aorta creates a pressure gradient where the blood pressure is elevated proximal to the narrowing and reduced distal to it. This means the arteries of the upper body—head, arms, and upper trunk—experience higher pressure, so hypertension is seen in the upper extremities. In contrast, the lower body receives less blood flow, leading to diminished femoral and leg pulses. While headaches can occur from the high blood pressure, the defining and most characteristic finding is upper-extremity hypertension.

Coarctation of the aorta creates a pressure gradient where the blood pressure is elevated proximal to the narrowing and reduced distal to it. This means the arteries of the upper body—head, arms, and upper trunk—experience higher pressure, so hypertension is seen in the upper extremities. In contrast, the lower body receives less blood flow, leading to diminished femoral and leg pulses. While headaches can occur from the high blood pressure, the defining and most characteristic finding is upper-extremity hypertension.

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