An aortic dissection is when an injury occurs to the innermost layer of the aorta, allowing blood in between the layers, leading to the ballooning and tearing of the aorta. In most cases, this is associated with a sudden onset of severe chest or back pain, often described as "tearing" in character.
Chest discomfort
Severe
Sudden, intense spike of pain
Rapidly developing
Tearing in your chest
Left side, Center of the chest
Radiates to the back
or Back pain
Sudden, intense spike of pain
Rapidly developing
Severe
common
Rapid heart rate
common
Pulse measured on arms or legs is weak
Difficulty breathing
Occurs or worsens with exertion
Occurs when lying flat
Rapidly developing
During sleep
Decreased ability to understand or express language
Recent
or Fatigue
Fainting
or Dizziness
High blood pressure disease
Marfan syndrome
Recent chest injury or trauma
Smoking
or Balloon-like bulge in the aorta
Abdominal
Pregnant
If you have Aortic Dissection, then visit a cardiologist as soon as possible.
Contact a
Cardiologist