Aortic Dissection: Symptoms & Signs

Aortic dissection is a serious medical condition that occurs when a tear develops in the inner muscle wall lining of the aorta, the largest artery in the body that carries blood away from the heart. This usually happens in a weakened area of the aortic wall, allowing blood to split apart the muscle layers of the aortic wall.

Symptoms and signs of aortic dissection include

• a tearing or ripping chest pain,
• sweating,
• nausea,
• weakness, and
• shortness of breath.

Other symptoms and signs can include

• fainting,
• dizziness, or
• abdominal pain radiating to the flank or back in the case of a dissection in the abdominal part of the aorta.

Causes of aortic dissection

Many conditions can cause aortic dissection. Hypertension or high blood pressure is the most common cause. Other risk factors for developing aortic dissection include tobacco smoking and high cholesterol. Trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents, can also cause aortic dissection.

Other aortic dissection symptoms and signs

• Abdominal Pain Radiating to the Flank or Back
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Nausea
• Shortness of Breath
• Sweating
• A Tearing or Ripping Chest Pain
• Weakness

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In the U.S., 1 in every 4 deaths is caused by heart disease. See Answer