What does acute aortic dissection mean?
Sep 13, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
In general, acute aortic dissection, medically referred to as aortic dissection, is a severe and potentially life-threatening cardiovascular emergency. Immediate medical attention is required when symptoms such as sudden severe chest and back pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness occur, to avoid delays in treatment. It is important to maintain blood pressure within the normal range, avoid strenuous exercise, and prevent emotional excitement in daily life.
Generally, acute aortic dissection, medically known as aortic dissection, is a severe and potentially life-threatening cardiovascular emergency. Detailed analysis is as follows:
Acute aortic dissection refers to a tear in the inner membrane of the aortic wall, allowing blood to surge into the space between the inner and outer layers, forming a false lumen and causing the blood vessel wall to separate. Common causes include long-term hypertension eroding the vessel walls, congenital structural abnormalities of the aorta, traumatic injury to the vessels, hormonal changes during pregnancy affecting vascular elasticity, and age-related decline in vessel wall elasticity. These factors compromise the stability of the aortic wall, making the inner layer prone to rupture and subsequent dissection.
When sudden severe chest or back pain, difficulty breathing, dizziness, or other symptoms occur, immediate medical attention is necessary to avoid treatment delays. In daily life, blood pressure should be maintained within a normal range, strenuous exercise and emotional excitement should be avoided, vascular health should be monitored regularly, and individuals with relevant medical histories must strictly follow medical advice regarding medication and follow-up examinations.
