Conditions

Aorta

Anatomical depiction of the aorta

When the Body’s Main Highway Is at Risk: Understanding and Treating Aortic Disease

It was just another ordinary morning when Mr. Goh, a 58-year-old, felt a strange, pulsing sensation in his belly. He ignored it at first—blaming it on indigestion. But days later, the pain in his back grew sharp, then unbearable. He was rushed to the emergency department, where scans revealed a large abdominal aortic aneurysm—a silent threat that could have ruptured at any moment.

This isn’t just a story—it’s a reminder of how vital your aorta is to your health, and how quietly life-threatening aortic disease can develop.

What Is the Aorta, and Why Should You Care?

The aorta is the largest artery in your body—think of it as the “superhighway” that carries oxygen-rich blood from your heart to every organ. From your brain and kidneys to your legs and feet, this vessel fuels your body with life.

But like any highway, when the aorta develops damage, weakness, or narrowing, it disrupts the entire system. Without prompt care, these conditions can become life-threatening.

Types of Aortic Disease: Silent But Serious

Aortic diseases can be quiet for years. But when they speak, they do so with urgency. Here are the most common types:

• Aortic Aneurysm: A bulge in the aorta caused by a weak arterial wall. Most common in the chest (thoracic) or abdomen. It may grow unnoticed until it risks rupturing.
• Aortic Dissection: A dangerous tear in the inner aortic wall that allows blood to separate its layers. This is a true emergency requiring immediate intervention.
• Coarctation of the Aorta: A congenital narrowing of the aorta that affects blood flow to the lower body. Often diagnosed in infants or young adults.
• Inflammatory Aortic Diseases: Rare autoimmune disorders like Takayasu’s arteritis or Giant Cell Arteritis that inflame and damage the aorta.

What Causes Aortic Disease?

Understanding what puts strain on your aorta helps you take control of your health. Common risk factors include:

• Genetics: Conditions like Marfan syndrome or a family history of aneurysm increase risk.
• Aging and High Blood Pressure: Over time, blood vessels lose strength and flexibility.
• Atherosclerosis: Plaque buildup weakens arterial walls.
• Bicuspid Aortic Valve: A heart valve abnormality that increases pressure on the aorta.
• Autoimmune and Inflammatory Conditions
• Smoking and Drug Use
• Trauma or Severe Injury
• Infections, including rare causes like syphilitic aortitis

How Would You Know If Something’s Wrong?

Aortic disease is often a “silent killer.” But symptoms, when present, vary depending on the condition:

Aortic Aneurysm Symptoms:

• Pulsating feeling in the abdomen
• Deep, aching chest or back pain
• Sudden, severe pain (possible rupture)

Aortic Dissection Symptoms:

• Tearing chest or back pain
• Shortness of breath or hoarseness
• Fainting or shock

Coarctation Symptoms:

• High blood pressure
• Headaches, fatigue, or cold legs
• Heart failure symptoms in babies

If you experience sudden chest pain, back pain, dizziness, or fainting—don’t wait. Call emergency services immediately.

How Is Aortic Disease Diagnosed?

Early detection can mean the difference between a close call and a medical catastrophe. Common diagnostic tools include:

• Ultrasound: Ideal for abdominal aneurysm screening.
• CT Scan or MRI: High-resolution images for size, location, and tear assessment.
• Genetic Testing: Especially if there’s a family history or connective tissue disorder.
• Inflammatory Blood Markers: For autoimmune conditions.

Treatment Options: Minimally Invasive to Surgical Excellence

We tailor treatment to each patient’s needs—whether that’s medication, surveillance, or surgery.

Medications:

• Blood pressure control (beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors)
• Statins to lower cholesterol
• Immunosuppressants for inflammation

Minimally Invasive Procedures:

• EVAR (Endovascular Aneurysm Repair): A stent graft is placed through small incisions in the groin—less recovery time, less trauma.

Open Surgery:

Used for large, complex, or ruptured aneurysms and dissections.

• Involves grafting to replace damaged aortic sections.

Coarctation Repair:

• Balloon angioplasty with stenting or surgical correction for narrowed segments.

Prevention: A Lifelong Commitment to Heart Health

While you can’t change your genes, you can take steps to protect your aorta:

• Quit smoking.
• Control blood pressure and cholesterol.
• Eat a balanced, heart-healthy diet.
• Exercise regularly.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Get screened if you have risk factors.

Living With Aortic Disease

Being diagnosed with an aortic aneurysm or dissection can feel overwhelming. But many patients live long, full lives with regular monitoring and lifestyle adjustments. Follow-up imaging, medication adherence, and avoiding high-strain activities are crucial.