Even after coarctation repair, your blood pressure may still be high or you may be at risk of developing high blood pressure (hypertension) in later years. Regular blood pressure monitoring in both arms and legs are performed during your routine cardiology visits. Periodical investigations are also performed to check for re-coarctation.
In most cases, you are not required to limit your activity if your arm and leg blood pressures are normal. However, if your blood pressure is still high, you may need to avoid certain strenuous exercise. Please ask your cardiologist if you should limit any activity.
The incidence of infective endocarditis (IE) in congenital patients is higher than in the general population. Therefore, it is important for them to maintain good oral, dental and skin hygiene as primary prevention. Cosmetic tattooing and piercing are discouraged due to the risk of IE. Antibiotic prophylaxis is considered for patients at highest risk for IE before surgery and dental procedures. Please discuss with your congenital team on the latest updates regarding antibiotic prophylaxis.
Women with repaired coarctation rarely encounter any difficulties except if there is residual aortic valve abnormality, hypertension or significant residual coarctation. Please consult your cardiologist before starting a family.
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