Customer question:
What is aortic dissection? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
Aortic dissection is a severe medical condition that occurs when the inner layer of the aorta separates from the middle and outer layers, often due to bleeding between these layers.
This split can, in turn, cause reduced blood flow to vital organs or cause serious complications such as a widening of the split or a rupture of the aorta. Aortic dissection pain is usually severe and sudden and may occur in the chest or back. The pain is often described as "the worst pain of my life" and can be very similar to the pain of a heart attack. Check out more about aneurysms, which are also more urgent health conditions.
In addition to pain, aortic dissection can also cause shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, visual disturbances, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, or even loss of consciousness. Aortic dissection is a medical emergency that requires immediate hospital treatment. Treatment usually involves using blood pressure-lowering drugs to help reduce stress on the aorta and prevent the tear from spreading. In some cases, surgery may also be required to repair the cleft and prevent further complications. It is essential to seek medical help immediately when symptoms suggestive of aortic dissection appear.
In whom does aortic dissection occur most often?
Aortic dissection is a relatively rare medical condition, but it can occur in people of all ages and genders. Nevertheless, some risk factors increase the likelihood of developing aortic dissection:
- age,
- high blood pressure,
- connective tissue diseases,
- atherosclerosis,
- previous operations on the heart or aorta,
- chest injuries and
- smoking.
Interesting reading: Aortic aneurysm
