What causes dilation of the ascending aorta, and what should be done?

In general, ascending aortic dilation may be caused by genetic factors, thoracic trauma, secondary infection of aortic dissection or aortic aneurysm, hypertension, or congenital heart disease. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and undergo symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Genetic Factors

For example, Marfan syndrome is an autosomal dominant hereditary connective tissue disorder. It mainly results from gene mutations that cause abnormalities in the body's connective tissues, thereby thinning the aortic wall. Under long-term hemodynamic stress, the ascending aorta is prone to dilation. This condition may also be accompanied by symptoms such as tall stature and elongated limbs. Treatment may include medications such as metoprolol succinate extended-release tablets, bisoprolol fumarate tablets, and torasemide tablets, as directed by a physician.

2. Thoracic Trauma

Severe chest impact or crush injuries may directly damage the ascending aorta. During the later stages of recovery, the injured area may develop dilation of the ascending aorta due to scar formation and vascular remodeling. Treatment may include medications such as captopril tablets, benazepril hydrochloride tablets, and ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, as directed by a physician.

3. Secondary Infection of Aortic Dissection or Aortic Aneurysm

When an aortic dissection occurs or an aortic aneurysm forms, the structural integrity of the local vascular wall is compromised. If infection occurs, the resulting inflammatory response can further thin the aortic wall, thereby exacerbating dilation of the ascending aorta. Treatment may include medications such as nifedipine tablets, irbesartan tablets, and atorvastatin calcium tablets, as directed by a physician.

4. Hypertension

When blood pressure is elevated, the pressure within the aorta also increases. If this internal pressure remains excessively high for a prolonged period, the aortic lumen will gradually dilate. In hypertensive patients whose blood pressure remains uncontrolled over the long term, this dilation becomes more pronounced. Treatment may include medications such as nifedipine controlled-release tablets, amlodipine besylate tablets, and valsartan amlodipine tablets, as directed by a physician.

5. Congenital Heart Disease

Congenital heart disease may be caused by genetic factors, medications, radiation, or other influences. Due to an abnormal number of valve leaflets, blood passing through the aortic valve generates abnormal vortices, increasing the pressure exerted on the aortic wall. Long-term exposure to abnormal pressure stimuli can cause gradual dilation of the ascending aorta. Treatment may include medications such as warfarin sodium tablets, nitroglycerin tablets, and digoxin tablets, as directed by a physician.

Maintain healthy lifestyle habits in daily life and avoid consuming spicy or irritating foods, such as pepper, chili peppers, and garlic, as these may hinder recovery.