In this Article

• Introduction to aortic dissection
• What are the causes of aortic dissection?
• What are the signs and symptoms of aortic dissection?
• How is aortic dissection diagnosed?
• What is the treatment for aortic dissection?
• What is the prognosis for aortic dissection?
• Can aortic dissection be prevented?
• Aortic Dissection At A Glance
• Aortic Dissection Glossary
• Aortic Dissection Index

Can aortic dissection be prevented?

As with any disease involving blood vessels, prevention is key. Controlling high blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, and avoiding smoking decreases the risk of all blood vessel disease. Since 70% of patients with aortic dissection have hypertension, controlling high blood pressure, one risk factor, may decrease the risk of this disease.

Any chest pain should not be ignored, and medical care should be accessed immediately by activating the emergency medical services system and calling 911.

Since the cause of the chest pain may be unknown, giving a baby aspirin to the patient is appropriate, as is providing nitroglycerin (if the patient has been prescribed this medication for chest pain)

Aortic Dissection At A Glance

• An aortic dissection occurs when a tear occurs in the inner muscle wall lining of the aorta, allowing blood to split the muscle layers of the aortic wall apart.
  
  
• Symptoms of aortic dissection include a tearing or ripping pain in the chest, sweating, nausea, shortness of breath, weakness, or syncope (fainting)
  
  
• There are two types of dissection: type A is treated surgically, type B is treated with medical management.
  
  
• Mortality is high for both types of aortic dissection.
  
  
• Reducing the risk factors for aortic dissection, such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, diabetes, and quitting smoking are key to prevention of this condition.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• Beta Blockers - Learn more about Beta Blockers, a drug that treats angina and other heart rhythm disorders, migraines, high blood pressure, panic attacks, and tremors. Generic and brand names are included in the article.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scan) - Medical information on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) used in detecting structural abnormalities of the body. Learn uses, risks, and how to prepare for an MRI scan
• Low Blood Pressure - Learn about low blood pressure (hypotension). Low blood pressure is blood pressure below normal and symptoms may include: lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting upon standing (orthostatic hypotension). There are many causes of low blood pressure, and treatment is dependant upon the cause.

Read more Aortic Dissection related articles »

Latest Medical News

• Despite More Tests, Some Aren't Getting Results
• Fewer Dying Now From Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms