Aortic Dissection Awareness Week

Aortic Dissection Awareness Week is a time when we especially focus on helping everyone understand the genetic risk factors for aortic dissection, the signs and symptoms of aortic emergency, how to prepare for an emergency, and how to best reduce risk.

In the population The Marfan Foundation serves — people with genetic aortic and vascular complications due to conditions like Marfan, Loeys-Dietz, VEDS, and related conditions – individuals have an estimated
250x increased risk of aortic dissection. That’s why this week matters.

Faces of Aortic Dissection Awareness Week

What Everyone Should Know About Aortic Dissection

What is aortic dissection?

Aortic dissection is a tear or rupture between layers of the aortic wall that can be fatal and is always serious.
Who is at risk?

Several factors put people at risk for thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection. The condition does not always cause symptoms; therefore, it is important to know if you are at risk so that the aorta can be repaired before it dissects.
Does it run in the family?

20% of people in the general population are at increased risk of aortic dissection, due to genes.

Symptoms of aortic dissection

Everyone should know the signs and symptoms of aortic dissection, and seek emergency medical help for themselves or loved ones immediately if they occur.

Symptoms of aortic dissection usually appear suddenly and may include:
• Severe, sudden, constant chest pain and/or upper back pain, sometimes described as “ripping” or “tearing.”
• Pain that feels like it is moving from one place to another
• Unusually pale skin
• Faint pulse
• Numbness or tingling
• Paralysis
• In some instances, there may be no pain but a sense that there is something terribly “wrong.”

Learn more here.
Symptoms of aortic aneurysm

Symptoms of aortic aneurysm may be related to the location, size and growth rate of the aneurysm and can include:
• Pain in the chest, neck, and/or back
• Swelling of the head, neck, and arms
• Coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath
• Coughing up blood

Learn more here.
Stay ahead of aortic risk

People who are aware that they are at increased risk can help mitigate their risk for experiencing aortic dissection by working closely with their healthcare providers which may include a medical geneticist, cardiologist, and cardiovascular surgeon.

Learn how to find your healthcare team here.

Find us on Social

How Can I Help?

Spread the Word

• Visit our official social media accounts, like and share our message.

• Download our ADAW art and post to your social media throughout the week.

Learn More

Use the resources on this page to better understand aortic emergencies, prevention, and risk. Know the signs and symptoms.

Donate Today

Your contribution saves lives! Donate TODAY to advance education, prevention, and treatment of genetic aortic conditions.

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Resources

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Know the Signs, Save a Life

Aortic dissection is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Our visual guide highlights the critical symptoms to watch for.

Act Fast: If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, seek emergency medical help immediately. Early recognition and treatment can be life-saving.

Stay Informed: Share this image to raise awareness and help others recognize the signs of aortic dissection. Your knowledge could make a crucial difference in someone’s life!

Be Aware. Be Prepared. Act Quickly.

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