The evaluation of coarctation of the aorta begins with a medical history and physical examination.

Physical findings in someone with coarctation of the aorta may include:

• Heart murmur
• Unequal pulses in the arms: usually diminished in the left arm
• Unequal blood pressures in the arms and legs

Tests are required to make the diagnosis of coarctation of the aorta.

Tests that may be used to evaluate coarctation of the aorta include:

• Complete blood count
• Liver profile
• Kidney profile
• Coagulation profile
• Cardiac enzymes
• Doppler ultrasound in the extremities
• Chest x-ray
• Electrocardiogram
• Echocardiogram
• Particularly transesophageal echocardiography and transthoracic echocardiography.
• MRI scanning of the chest
• CT scanning of the chest:
• A more sensitive method
• Angiography
• Cardiac catheterization
• Usually performed prior to surgery