Heart and aortic guide
Aortic Dissection: Warning Signs and Why It Is an Emergency
Aortic dissection is a rare but life-threatening tear in the wall of the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart. Knowing the warning signs can save valuable time.
Emergency first. If you or someone near you has sudden, severe chest or back pain, call your local emergency number now: 911 in the US and Canada, 999 or 112 in the UK, 000 in Australia, and 112 in Greece and across Europe. Do not drive yourself and do not wait for a reply from us. We are not an emergency service.
What Is Aortic Dissection?
The aorta has layers. In a dissection, the inner layer tears and blood forces its way between the layers. This weakens the wall of the aorta and can reduce blood flow to the brain, heart, kidneys, or limbs. Fast diagnosis and treatment in hospital give the best chance of survival.
Warning Signs
- Sudden, severe chest or upper back pain, which may spread to the neck, back, or stomach.
- Fainting or sudden shortness of breath.
- Stroke-like signs: trouble speaking, loss of vision, or weakness on one side of the body.
- A weaker pulse in one arm or leg than the other.
- Pale, sweaty, clammy skin.
Symptoms can look like a heart attack. Only hospital tests can tell the difference.
Type A and Type B
| Type A | Type B | |
|---|---|---|
| Where it starts | The part of the aorta leaving the heart (ascending aorta) | The aorta further down, in the back of the chest (descending aorta) |
| How it is usually treated | Emergency surgery, usually replacing the damaged section with a graft; sometimes the aortic valve is treated too | Often medicines to lower blood pressure and close monitoring; some cases need surgery or a stent-graft |
| Follow-up | Regular aortic scans, blood pressure control, and check-ups with the heart team | Regular aortic scans, blood pressure control, and check-ups with the heart team |
Who Is at Higher Risk
- High blood pressure.
- An aortic aneurysm or aortic valve disease, including a bicuspid aortic valve.
- Inherited conditions such as Marfan or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, or a family history.
- Smoking and older age; it is more common after 60 and in men.
Lowering Your Risk
- Keep your blood pressure under control and take medicines as prescribed.
- Stop smoking.
- Tell your doctor about any family history or known aneurysm.
- Attend the scans and check-ups your doctor recommends.
After Treatment
- Regular aortic scans check that the repair is holding.
- Blood pressure control stays important.
- Cardiac rehabilitation may be recommended.
- Avoid heavy lifting and straining until your heart team says otherwise.
How We Can Help With Planned Decisions
- A second opinion before planned surgery, for example for a known aneurysm.
- Organizing your scans and reports for a preliminary review.
- A consultation with the heart and aortic surgeon we work with in Athens, Greece.
- Never for an emergency; call your local emergency number.
Learn more about heart and aortic surgery consultations in Athens, Greece.
Aortic Dissection FAQ
Is aortic dissection the same as a heart attack?
No. Both can cause sudden chest pain, but they are different conditions. Only hospital tests can tell them apart, so call your emergency number straight away.
Can aortic dissection be prevented?
Not always, but the risk can be lowered by controlling blood pressure, not smoking, and attending regular scans if you have an aneurysm, a valve condition, or an inherited condition.
Can I get a second opinion through medtour.ist?
Yes, for planned decisions, such as a known aneurysm or follow-up after treatment. Send your reports and scans, and we arrange a preliminary review with a heart and aortic surgeon in Athens. We cannot help in an emergency.
When can I fly after treatment?
Only when your heart team says it is safe. Ask for this advice in writing before you book your flight.
Content last reviewed: October 2026. General information only; it does not replace an examination by a doctor.
Planning a Heart or Aortic Surgery Decision?
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