040 68334455
WhatsApp
Patient Portal
Home Care
Right Aortic Arch: Symptoms and Causes
A right aortic arch is a rare congenital condition where the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body, is positioned on the right side of the body instead of the left. This anatomical variation can sometimes lead to abnormalities in the surrounding blood vessels and structures in the chest. As a result, individuals with a right aortic arch may experience certain health implications related to the altered positioning of their aorta. Understanding this condition can be important for healthcare providers in managing the potential impact it may have on a person's health.
What are the Symptoms of Right Aortic Arch
Individuals with a right aortic arch may experience a range of symptoms related to the abnormal positioning of the aorta in the body.
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chest pain
- Recurrent respiratory infections
- Stridor
- Wheezing
- Choking
- Cyanosis
- Persistent cough
- Feeding difficulties
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Get Second OpinionCauses of Right Aortic Arch
Right aortic arch is primarily caused by abnormal development during fetal growth, leading to the aorta being positioned on the right side of the trachea instead of the left.
- Genetic factors
- Developmental abnormalities
- Congenital heart defects
- Infections during pregnancy
- Environmental factors
Types of Right Aortic Arch
Right aortic arch can present in various forms, each with distinct anatomical features and implications for cardiovascular health.
- Mirror Image Right Aortic Arch: A rare condition where the aortic arch and its branching vessels mirror the usual leftsided anatomy.
- RightSided Aortic Arch with Aberrant Left Subclavian Artery: A congenital anomaly where the aortic arch is on the right side and the left subclavian artery has an abnormal origin.
- RightSided Aortic Arch with Mirror Image Branching: The aortic arch is located on the right side, and the branching pattern of the vessels mirrors the usual leftsided arrangement.
- RightSided Aortic Arch with Isolation of the Left Subclavian Artery: The aortic arch is on the right side, and the left subclavian artery arises separately from the descending aorta.
- RightSided Aortic Arch with Kommerell’s Diverticulum: A condition where the aortic arch is on the right side, and there is an abnormal dilation at the origin of the left subclavian artery known as Kommerell’s diverticulum.
Risk Factors
Right aortic arch, a rare congenital anomaly, may be associated with genetic syndromes such as DiGeorge syndrome and vascular ring abnormalities, potentially leading to respiratory or swallowing difficulties.
- Genetic predisposition
- Chromosomal abnormalities
- Congenital heart defects
- Vascular ring anomalies
- Syndromes like DiGeorge syndrome or CHARGE syndrome
- Maternal conditions during pregnancy
Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.
Schedule Your Appointment
Diagnosis of Right Aortic Arch
Right aortic arch is typically diagnosed through imaging studies that allow healthcare providers to visualize the position of the aorta in relation to the spine and other structures in the chest.
- Chest Xray
- Echocardiogram
- CT scan
- MRI scan
Treatment for Right Aortic Arch
Treatment for a right aortic arch aims to manage associated symptoms and complications effectively.
- Observation: In mild cases of right aortic arch without symptoms, regular monitoring by a healthcare provider may be recommended to track any potential changes in the condition.
- Surgical Correction: In more severe cases or if symptoms arise, surgical correction may be necessary to reposition the aorta and address any associated anomalies to prevent complications.
- Medication Management: Medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms such as swallowing difficulties or respiratory issues that can be associated with right aortic arch.
- Nutritional Support: In cases where swallowing difficulties affect nutrition intake, nutritional support such as modified diets or feeding tubes may be recommended to ensure adequate nourishment.
- Multidisciplinary Care: Collaborative care involving specialists such as cardiologists, surgeons, and nutritionists may be essential in managing right aortic arch to address the diverse aspects of the condition effectively.
Still have questions? Speak with our experts now!
040-68334455Frequently Asked Questions
What is a right aortic arch?
A right aortic arch is a rare anatomical variation where the aorta curves to the right side of the body instead of the left.
What are the symptoms of a right aortic arch?
Most individuals with a right aortic arch do not experience any symptoms. In some cases, it may be associated with congenital heart defects or abnormalities in nearby structures.
How is a right aortic arch diagnosed?
A right aortic arch can be diagnosed through imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs which can show the abnormal positioning of the aorta.
What are the potential complications of a right aortic arch?
Complications may include compression of nearby structures like the esophagus or trachea, leading to difficulty swallowing or breathing in some cases.
How is a right aortic arch treated?
Treatment depends on associated conditions and symptoms. In some cases, no treatment is necessary. However, surgical intervention may be required if complications arise.
Feeling unwell?
Request a callback!
