What causes acute aortic syndrome?
The most common cause of acute
aortic syndrome is unmanaged high blood pressure (hypertension). Other causes
may include:
- Aortic aneurysm.
- Aortic valve defects.
- Plaque buildup and narrowed arteries
(atherosclerosis).
Who is most likely to get acute
aortic syndrome?
You’re more likely to develop acute
aortic syndrome if you have:
- Aortic aneurysm.
- Aortic coarctation.
- Bicuspid aortic valve disease.
- Certain genetic disorders, such as
Marfan syndrome, Turner syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
- High blood pressure.
Other risk factors may include:
Age: Acute aortic syndrome is more
common in people over 60.
Drug use: People who use cocaine are
more likely to develop acute aortic syndrome.
High-intensity strength training:
Heavy weightlifting and other resistance training may increase your risk of
acute aortic syndrome.
Pregnancy: Sometimes, people with no
other risk factors or health problems develop acute aortic syndrome while
pregnant.
Sex: Acute aortic syndrome is more
common in men and people assigned male at birth (AMAB) than women and people
assigned female at birth (AFAB).
How is acute aortic syndrome
diagnosed?
Healthcare providers use tests to
diagnose acute aortic syndrome, including:
- CT scan is the gold standard for viewing your
aorta’s structure, function and blood flow.
- Chest X-ray to view your heart’s structure and
the surrounding organs.
- Coronary angiogram to assess your heart’s blood
vessels and how blood flows through your heart.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG) to evaluate your heart’s
electrical signals.
- Transthoracic echocardiogram to look at your
heart’s chambers, valves and blood vessels.
How is acute aortic syndrome
treated?
The ascending aorta is the first
upward portion of the aorta closest to your heart. Acute aortic syndrome in
your ascending aorta requires emergency surgery. The surgeon often repairs the
damage in the aorta by removing the damaged portion and replacing it with a
tube made out of human-made material (synthetic graft). In severe cases, you
may have an aortic valve replacement.
The descending aorta is the downward
portion that connects to your arteries. Blood pressure medications can treat
acute aortic syndrome in your descending aorta. You may take beta blockers or
vasodilators.
How can I reduce my risk of acute
aortic syndrome?
You can reduce your risk of acute
aortic syndrome by practicing healthy habits, such as:
- Achieving and maintaining a weight that’s
healthy for your age, sex and body type.
- Controlling your blood pressure.
- Following your healthcare provider’s
instructions to manage any underlying health conditions.
- Quitting smoking.
What is the outlook for acute aortic syndrome?
Acute aortic syndrome can be life-threatening and
emergency surgery is often needed. The sooner you receive treatment, the better
your chances of a favorable outcome. The survival rate is higher for intramural
hematoma and penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer than for people with acute
aortic dissection.
You’ll need follow-up treatment to ensure your aorta
doesn’t leak or form an aneurysm. You’ll also need to closely monitor your
blood pressure long-term.