Aortic Dissection

What can be done to prevent the condition?

Treatment of any underlying disease, especially high blood pressure, can help prevent aortic dissection. In people with inherited diseases who are at high risk, high blood pressure should be treated before problems occur.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

In many cases of aortic dissection, there are no long-term effects. Individuals are either treated successfully or die. Death may occur instantly in some cases. In other cases, permanent body damage can occur. For example, a person may become paralyzed or have a heart attack or stroke.

What are the risks to others?

Aortic dissection is not contagious, and poses no risk to others.