4. Aortic coarctation
Aortic coarctation. We know it might sound like an overwhelmingly complicated word, but it’s just a fancy term that doctors use to describe the narrowing of the aorta. When the aorta narrows, your heart needs to work harder in order to pump the necessary amount of blood to keep your organs and tissue alive, as well as ensure they function at optimal efficiency. This increased stress on the aorta increases the odds of an aortic dissection occurring — especially if the condition remains untreated.
Most cases of aortic coarctation are present since birth. In some instances, aortic coarctation isn’t even detected. Unlike some of the other items on this list, aortic coarctation is actually relatively easy to relieve through treatment. That being said, while most procedures are successful, lifelong care and checkups are required to maintain a healthy state of living.