Which congenital heart defect is characterized by a "narrowing" of the aorta?

Coarctation of the aorta is a congenital heart defect that specifically involves the narrowing of the aorta, which can lead to significant complications. The narrowing typically occurs just distal to the left subclavian artery, impacting blood flow and causing hypertension in the upper body while potentially leading to decreased blood flow to the lower body. This can result in symptoms such as difficulty breathing, poor feeding, and failure to thrive in infants, along with higher blood pressure readings in the arms compared to the legs.

The recognition of this condition is crucial, as it often requires surgical intervention or other therapeutic measures to resolve the narrowing and restore adequate blood flow. Understanding the distinctive characteristics of coarctation of the aorta is key for both management and potential long-term outcomes for affected individuals.