Aortic dissection
Aortic dissection is a serious clinical condition in which the inner layers of the aortic wall separate. The aorta is the largest artery in the body and carries blood from the heart to the tissues Due to mixing, blood penetrates between the layers and further separates the inner and middle layers (dissection). If the blood-filled aorta tears (ruptures) due to the spasms, this condition is often fatal.
Aortic dissection is not so common It occurs mainly in men aged 60-70 Symptoms of aortic dissection can be similar to those of other diseases, so the diagnosis is often delayed However, if aortic dissection is diagnosed and treated early, the chance of survival increases significantly.
The site of aortic dissection is the weakest part of the wall Chronic hypertension (high blood pressure) wears on the aortic wall and increases the risk of strokes You may have inherited a weak aorta, such as in Marfan syndrome, bicuspid aortic valve, or other genetic diseases Rarely, aortic dissection is caused by trauma to the chest, such as motor vehicle accidents
Aortic dissection is divided into two types, depending on which part of the aorta is dissection:
- Type A This is a more common and dangerous condition in which a blockage occurs in the part of the aorta that leaves the heart (aortic aorta) and can spread to the abdominal aorta.
- B type This type involves the lower, descending part of the aorta (descending) and can also extend to the abdominal aorta.
Aortic dissection is similar to other heart pathologies, such as heart attack, in terms of symptoms Typical symptoms and signs are:
- Sudden severe pain in the chest or upper back, characterized by a sharp, stabbing pain that radiates to the neck or lower back
- Fainting
- Shortness of breath
- Sudden loss of speech, vision These signs and symptoms are always indicative of a serious problem and require prompt diagnosis Early diagnosis and treatment can be life-saving
