What is aortic dissection?
The aorta is the largest artery in your body. It carries blood from your heart to the rest of your body. The aorta has 3 layers. An aortic dissection is a tear between the layers.
Is an aortic dissection dangerous?
Yes. When the aorta tears, blood flows between the layers, and they separate. This can keep blood from getting to important parts of your body, and can also cause your aorta to burst. An aortic dissection can be deadly! Call 911 right away!
What causes an aortic dissection?
- A family history of aortic dissection. Genetic testing can help you know if you are at risk.
- Men 50 and older have a higher risk.
- Health problems, such as: high blood pressure, coronary artery disease ("hardening"/narrowing of the arteries), aortic aneurysm, connective tissue disease, such as Marfan syndrome.
How does an aortic dissection make me feel?
- Sudden, severe sharp pain in your chest or upper back. Feels like ripping or burning.
- Short of breath.
- Fast heartbeat.
- Dizzy or fainting.
How do I know if I have an aortic dissection?
Your doctor can check for an aortic dissection with:
- An ultrasound of your heart (echocardiogram/echo).
- CT scan.
- MRI.
- Chest X-ray.
- Other tests.
Can an aortic dissection be fixed?
Treatment depends on where the tear is, how bad it is, and your overall health.
You may need:
- Medicine to control your heart rate and blood pressure.
- A procedure.
- Surgery.
You will need to see your doctor for regular check-ups and make lifestyle changes, such as:
- Not smoking.
- Losing weight.
- Eating a heart-healthy diet.
Ask your doctor about healthy types of exercise. Most are OK, but you may not be able to lift weights.
