The symptoms associated with this defect involve the compression of the trachea and esophagus by the surrounding Vascular Ring. Breathing may be audible as the windpipe is compressed, resulting in stridor - wheezing or other respiratory distress. Solid food may not be easily swallowed as the Vascular Ring narrows the esophagus, and vomiting or choking may occur.

The animation at left shows the vascular structures that encircle the trachea (light gray) and the esophagus (dark gray).