Aortic disease is a group of conditions that affect the aorta, the body’s main artery. The aorta is responsible for carrying oxygen-rich blood from the heart to other vital organs and tissues, playing a central role in maintaining healthy circulation. While some types of aortic disease develop slowly and go undetected for many years, others can worsen rapidly and become a life-threatening medical emergency.

Overall, aortic disease is relatively common, affecting millions of people worldwide and becoming increasingly prevalent with age. Population studies suggest that several percent of adults older than 60 have some form of aortic abnormality, whether diagnosed or undiagnosed. The likelihood rises significantly in people with cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension, high cholesterol, tobacco use or a family history of vascular disease.

Because aortic disease often progresses silently over time, many cases are discovered during imaging scans performed for an unrelated reason or after complications develop. For this reason, awareness, early detection and appropriate care are essential to protecting long-term heart and vascular health.

What Are the Types of Aortic Disease?

Aortic disease includes several distinct conditions that involve structural or functional changes in the aorta, each with unique symptoms, risks and treatment considerations. The types include:

Aortic Aneurysm

An aortic aneurysm develops when the arterial wall becomes weakened and begins to expand or bulge outward. Over time, this expansion may lead to rupture, constituting a life-threatening emergency.

Aneurysms can develop in different sections of the aorta, such as the chest or abdomen, and often grow slowly without causing symptoms. In many cases, the condition goes unnoticed until an aortic abnormality is identified in an imaging study for another health issue. When identified early, careful monitoring and treatment can help reduce the risk of rupture and other complications, such as blood clots and heart strain.

Aortic Atherosclerosis

Aortic atherosclerosis occurs when fatty deposits (plaque) accumulate along the inner walls of the aorta. Over time, plaque buildup can cause the artery to become narrow and inflexible, making it harder for blood to circulate efficiently throughout the body. Reduced blood flow and increased arterial stiffness can place additional strain on the heart and contribute to serious cardiovascular complications, including heart attack and stroke.

Typically, aortic atherosclerosis progresses gradually and may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. The condition is strongly associated with certain modifiable risk factors, including high cholesterol, high blood pressure and smoking, as well as aging and underlying cardiovascular disease. Early identification and management of these risk factors can slow the progression of aortic atherosclerosis and help prevent complications.

Aortic Dissection

Aortic dissection is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition characterized by a tear in the inner layer of the aortic wall. Blood may flow through the tear and enter the space between the arterial layers, causing them to separate and interfering with normal circulation. This can place extreme stress on the aorta and disrupt the delivery of oxygen-rich blood to vital organs throughout the body.

Aortic dissection often causes sudden, severe pain in the chest, back or abdomen, which may be accompanied by shortness of breath, dizziness or loss of consciousness. Because the condition can progress rapidly, immediate medical attention is essential. Without a prompt diagnosis and treatment, aortic dissection can lead to serious complications, including organ damage and stroke.

Aortic Rupture

Aortic rupture is a medical emergency that arises when the aortic wall breaks open completely, causing severe internal bleeding. This can quickly disrupt blood flow to vital organs and lead to shock. In many cases, the rupture results from an untreated or rapidly enlarging aneurysm, though it can also occur after significant trauma to the chest.

Because aortic rupture is a life-threatening condition, immediate medical attention is critical. Emergency surgical intervention is typically required to control the bleeding, restore blood flow and repair the damaged section of the artery.

Genetic and Inherited Aortic Conditions

Some forms of aortic disease can result from inherited connective tissue disorders that affect the strength and elasticity of the aortic wall, making the aorta more vulnerable to enlargement, tearing or rupture over time. Certain genetic conditions, including Marfan syndrome, Loeys-Dietz syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, are known to increase the risk of developing an aortic aneurysm or aortic dissection, often at a younger age than in the general population.

Because heritable aortic conditions often progress silently, individuals with known genetic risk factors may require lifelong monitoring through regular imaging and ongoing care by a cardiovascular specialist. Early diagnosis, careful surveillance and individualized treatment can help reduce the risk of serious complications and support long-term heart and vascular health.

What Are the Causes and Risk Factors for Aortic Disease?

In many cases, aortic disease stems from a combination of genetics, lifestyle practices and underlying medical conditions. Awareness of the causes and risk factors can support earlier identification and proactive cardiovascular care.

Common Causes of Aortic Disease

If the aortic wall becomes damaged or weakened, it may develop structural or functional abnormalities. Possible causes include:

• Atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, which can narrow the aorta and reduce its flexibility
• Genetic connective tissue disorders, which can affect the strength and elasticity of the aortic wall
• High blood pressure, which places continuous stress on the aorta and can contribute to weakening over time
• Traumatic injury to the chest, which can cause sudden damage to the aorta

Risk Factors for Aortic Disease

Certain characteristics, behaviors and exposures may increase the likelihood of developing aortic disease. These risk factors include:

• Advanced age, as the aorta naturally loses flexibility over time
• Family history of coronary heart disease
• Long-standing high cholesterol
• Poorly controlled cardiovascular conditions, such as hypertension
• Smoking or long-term tobacco use

While some risk factors for aortic disease, such as age and genetics, cannot be changed, others can be managed through regular medical care, healthy lifestyle choices and adherence to prescribed treatment plans. Addressing modifiable risk factors may lower the likelihood of developing aortic disease or help slow its progression.

What Are the Warning Signs and Symptoms of Aortic Disease?

The symptoms of aortic disease can vary depending on its type and severity. In some cases, the condition has no warning signs, while in others it may lead to sudden or severe changes that require urgent medical care.

Symptoms of aortic disease may include:

• Chest, back or abdominal pain that may feel sharp or tearing
• Difficulty swallowing
• Dizziness or fainting
• Rapid heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Signs of shock, such as low blood pressure or confusion
• Hoarseness

These symptoms may be subtle and easily mistaken for another, less serious condition, such as muscle strain, acid reflux, bronchitis or a panic attack. For this reason, a prompt evaluation by a medical professional is critical if aortic disease is suspected.

How Is Aortic Disease Diagnosed?

Diagnosing aortic disease involves a thorough clinical evaluation to assess the structure and function of the aorta. Early detection is essential for reducing the risk of complications and planning appropriate treatment.

Initial Evaluation and Medical History

The diagnostic process for aortic disease typically begins with a review of the symptoms and a detailed personal and family medical history, followed by a thorough physical examination. Specifically, the physician will check for abnormal heart sounds, blood pressure changes or other signs that may indicate aortic involvement.

Based on the findings from this initial evaluation, the physician will determine whether additional testing is needed and, if so, select the diagnostic tools most appropriate for confirming the diagnosis and guiding care.

Common Diagnostic Tests for Aortic Disease

Imaging studies are essential for confirming a diagnosis of aortic disease and determining its type and extent. Commonly used tests include:

• Chest X-rays to check for aortic enlargement
• Computed tomography (CT) scans to obtain detailed images of the aorta
• Echocardiography to evaluate blood flow and aortic structure
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to assess the size and integrity of the aorta

Additionally, the physician may order blood work to evaluate the patient’s overall health.

Differential Diagnosis for Symptoms of Aortic Disease

The symptoms of aortic disease may overlap with those of other serious conditions, including heart attack and pulmonary embolism. For this reason, a careful evaluation is essential to distinguish aortic disease from other possible diagnoses and ensure timely, appropriate care.

How Is Aortic Disease Treated?

Treatment for aortic disease can vary based on the type, severity and progression of the condition, as well as the patient’s age and overall health. Some cases can be managed with monitoring and medication, while others may require surgical intervention.

Medications for Managing Aortic Disease

Medications are often prescribed to help reduce stress on the aorta, manage underlying cardiovascular conditions and slow the progression of aortic disease. The specific medications used can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition, as well as the patient’s overall health.

Common medication options include:

• Blood pressure medications, such as beta blockers or other antihypertensive drugs, which can help lower blood pressure and reduce strain on the aortic wall
• Cholesterol-lowering medications, including statins, which can help reduce plaque buildup and support healthier blood vessels
• Heart rate-controlling medications, such as beta blockers or calcium channel blockers, which can help stabilize the heart’s workload and improve circulation
• Medication therapy for aortic disease requires careful selection, regular monitoring and ongoing adjustment by a cardiovascular specialist to ensure optimal effectiveness and safety.

Lifestyle Adjustments for Managing Aortic Disease

Lifestyle changes can play an important role in managing aortic disease and improving long-term outcomes. The patient may be advised to:

• Engage in safe, physician-approved physical activity
• Follow a heart-healthy diet
• Manage stress
• Monitor blood pressure regularly
• Quit smoking

These adjustments can support overall cardiovascular health and complement medical treatment.

Surgical and Procedural Interventions for Aortic Disease

In an advanced or high-risk case, a surgical or minimally invasive procedure may be considered to repair the aorta, restore normal blood flow and reduce the risk of life-threatening complications. The type of procedure recommended will depend on the location and severity of the disease, as well as the patient’s overall health and anatomy.

Surgical and procedural treatment options for aortic disease may include:

• Endovascular aneurysm repair – A minimally invasive procedure that uses a catheter to place a stent graft inside the aorta to reinforce the weakened area
• Open aortic repair – A traditional surgical approach in which the damaged portion of the aorta is replaced with a synthetic graft
• Valve-sparing aortic surgery – Repairs the aorta while preserving the patient’s own aortic valve when appropriate
• Hybrid procedure – Combines open surgery and minimally invasive techniques to treat a complex aortic condition

These advanced procedures, which are performed by a specialized cardiovascular team, are carefully selected to achieve the safest and most effective outcome.

What Are the Complications and Long-Term Effects of Aortic Disease?

Without proper management, aortic disease can progress and lead to serious, potentially life-threatening complications. As the condition worsens, changes in the structure or function of the aorta can disrupt blood flow and place significant strain on the heart and other vital organs.

Possible complications of aortic disease include:

• Aortic rupture, which can cause sudden and severe internal bleeding
• Heart failure, due to increased strain on the heart over time
• Life-threatening internal bleeding, which may occur suddenly and require emergency treatment
• Organ damage, resulting from reduced blood flow to the brain, kidneys or other vital organs
• Stroke, caused by impaired blood flow or blood clots

An early diagnosis, careful monitoring and expert care all play a critical role in managing aortic disease and significantly reducing the risk of long-term health issues.

Can Aortic Disease Be Prevented?

Not all cases of aortic disease can be prevented, such as those linked to age or genetics. However, by carefully managing any known risk factors, it may be possible to significantly reduce the likelihood of developing the condition or slow its progression. Preventive care focuses on protecting the health and strength of the aorta through ongoing medical management and healthy lifestyle choices.

Key strategies for preventing aortic disease include maintaining well-controlled blood pressure, managing cholesterol levels, avoiding tobacco use and following a heart-healthy diet. Regular physical activity, as recommended by a healthcare provider, can further support overall cardiovascular health.

Routine medical checkups can also play an important role in preventing aortic disease, particularly for individuals with a family history of heart issues or other cardiovascular risk factors. In some cases, screening and periodic imaging may be recommended to identify aortic abnormalities early, when treatment and monitoring are generally most effective.

What Is It Like to Live With Aortic Disease?

Living with aortic disease often involves ongoing medical care, regular follow-up visits and periodic imaging scans to monitor the condition over time. Many patients also need to make lifestyle adjustments, such as following key preventive strategies and taking prescribed medications as directed.

Education can help the patient better understand their diagnosis, recognize any concerning symptoms early and feel more confident in their daily decision-making. With access to specialized cardiovascular care and the right support system, many people with aortic disease can maintain an active lifestyle and a good quality of life. Clear communication and regular follow-up with the healthcare team can also help reduce uncertainty and provide reassurance about the future.

Benefit From World-Class Care at Tampa General Hospital

TGH offers comprehensive, patient-focused cardiac care supported by experienced specialists and the latest technologies. Our nationally recognized Heart and Vascular Institute, which encompasses both our Aortic Disease Program and our Women’s Heart Program, provides advanced diagnostic, treatment and supportive services for patients with aortic disease and other cardiovascular conditions. Our commitment to excellence is underscored by our recognition as Top 50 in the Nation for Heart & Vascular Care by U.S. News & World Report for 2025-26.

Contact Tampa General Hospital today to learn more about aortic disease or request an appointment with a specialist.