Why does the aorta get torn?

There are several reasons why the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body, can tear. Some of the most common causes include:

1. Atherosclerosis: This is the buildup of plaque, made up of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other substances, in the walls of the arteries, including the aorta. Atherosclerosis can weaken the aorta and make it more susceptible to tearing.

2. Hypertension (high blood pressure): Chronic high blood pressure can damage the walls of the aorta over time, making it more likely to tear, particularly in people who have other risk factors for aortic dissection, such as atherosclerosis.

3. Aortic aneurysm: An aortic aneurysm is a bulge or ballooning of the aorta. As an aneurysm grows larger, it can put a strain on the aorta and increase the risk of a tear.

4. Connective tissue disorders: Certain genetic disorders, such as Marfan syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, can affect the connective tissues in the body, including the aorta, making it weaker and more prone to tearing.

5. Trauma: Severe physical trauma, such as a car accident or a fall from a height, can cause a tear in the aorta.

6. Infection: In rare cases, an infection in the aorta or surrounding tissues can weaken the aortic walls and lead to a tear.

7. Aortic valve disorders: Some aortic valve problems, such as aortic stenosis (narrowing of the aortic valve) or aortic insufficiency (leaking of the aortic valve), can put additional stress on the aorta and increase the risk of a tear.

It's important to note that aortic tears are a serious medical emergency and require immediate medical attention. If you experience sudden, severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or other signs of an aortic tear, seek emergency medical care immediately.