Symptoms of aortic dissection and where to get help
The condition
Aortic dissection is a life threatening condition where the wall of the main blood vessel leaving the heart, the aorta, splits and forms an additional false vessel. It is associated with high blood pressure.
Aortic dissection affects the flow of blood through the aorta and the circulation system, causing various complications.
How the disease progresses depends on the patient and how blood flow is affected.
The symptoms
The symptoms are very similar to those of angina. You may feel a heaviness or tightness in your chest, which may spread to your arms, neck, jaw, back or stomach.
You may also feel short of breath, sick, sweaty and light headed. If the artery becomes completely blocked you may have a heart attack – which puts you at risk of a cardiac arrest.
If you have chest pain or any of the symptoms above call 999 immediately.
Where to get help
Cardiac nurses and heart health advisors from the British Heart Foundation can answer questions about anything heart related.
They are available on 0300 330 3311 (Similar cost to 01 or 02 numbers.)Lines are open 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday.
This information does not replace the advice that your doctor or nurse may give you. If you are worried about your heart health in any way, contact your GP or local healthcare provider.