Aortic dissection

Overview

An aortic dissection is a medical emergency in which the inner layer of the large blood vessel branching off the heart (aorta), tears. It's most common in men in their 60s and 70s.

Symptoms

Symptoms include sudden, severe chest or upper back pain that radiates to the neck or down the back, loss of consciousness, and shortness of breath.

Treatments

Treatment may include surgery or medication, such as beta blockers.