Aortic Dissection: What It Is and Why Fast Care Matters

An aortic dissection is a serious problem. It happens when a tear forms in the inner layer of the aorta, the body's main artery. Blood then splits the layers of the artery wall.

People often feel sudden, very bad chest or back pain that may feel like a tearing or stabbing pain. This is an emergency and needs immediate hospital care. Doctors may use scans to find the tear. Surgery or strong blood pressure medicines are used to save life. High blood pressure and older age raise the risk of this condition. Seek help quickly if you have these symptoms.