What you need to know about aortic dissection

Recent news has brought increased attention to aortic dissection, a life-threatening medical emergency that requires immediate diagnosis and treatment. Below, physicians at the Elaine & Robert Matranga Aortic Center, part of Hoag’s Jeffrey M. Carlton Heart & Vascular Institute, share warning signs and risk factors so you can protect your long-term heart and vascular health.

What is an aortic dissection?

“While not a common condition, an aortic dissection occurs when a tear develops in the inner layer of the aorta—the body's largest artery,” says Hoag vascular surgeon Dr. Allen Murga. “As blood enters the tear, it separates the layers of the aortic wall, which can reduce blood flow to vital organs and tissues. Without prompt medical treatment, an aortic dissection can quickly become life threatening.”

Who is at risk?

Although not all aortic dissections can be prevented, managing risk factors plays a critical role in maintaining a healthy aorta.

“One of the most important steps is controlling high blood pressure,” says Hoag cardiovascular surgeon Dr. Matthew Wingo, “as elevated blood pressure places ongoing stress on the aortic wall over time.”

Individuals should also speak with their healthcare provider if they have:

• A family history of aortic dissection or sudden unexplained death

• A family history of early or unexplained heart disease

• A known connective tissue disorder, such as Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

• An enlarged aorta (aortic aneurysm)

• A history of smoking

For individuals with a strong family history of aortic disease or unexplained sudden death, your physician may recommend screening or imaging to evaluate your aorta and determine whether ongoing surveillance is appropriate.

Know the warning signs

“Symptoms of an aortic dissection typically begin suddenly and should never be ignored,” says Hoag cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Ryan Bedi.

They may include:

• Severe chest, back, or abdominal pain that is often described as sharp, tearing, or ripping

• Shortness of breath

• Fainting

• Sudden weakness or difficulty speaking

• Loss of blood flow to an arm or leg

Because an aortic dissection is a medical emergency, anyone experiencing these symptoms should call 911 or seek emergency medical care immediately.

Prevention

“Maintaining regular follow-up appointments, controlling blood pressure, avoiding tobacco use, and seeking expert evaluation when appropriate are among the most effective ways to reduce the risk of aortic emergencies,” Dr. Bedi says.

Hoag’s multidisciplinary Aortic Center provides comprehensive evaluation, advanced imaging, ongoing surveillance, and specialized medical and surgical care for patients with aortic disease. Whether you're managing an existing aortic condition or have risk factors that warrant closer monitoring, partnering with an experienced aortic team can help detect problems early and support lifelong vascular health.

If you have concerns about your risk for aortic disease or a family history of aortic conditions, the Aortic Center can help determine the appropriate evaluation and long-term care plan for you.

Learn more or schedule an appointment with the Aortic Center.