How is aortic dissection diagnosed?
The healthcare provider should be suspicious of aortic dissection as one of the causes to be considered for chest pain, as well as for heart attack and pulmonary embolism. If the patient has unstable vital signs, poor breathing, abnormal pulse, low blood pressure, and/or a decreased level of consciousness, the ABCs of resuscitation (Airway, Breathing, Circulation) need to be addressed while the evaluation of the patient continues. Patient History The history is one of the important first steps in deciding upon the diagnosis. Physical examination may reveal the potential complications of the aortic aneurysm to allow the healthcare provider to consider this as a potential diagnosis. Again, the presenting symptoms will depend upon the location of the dissection and what organs are involved. Symptoms, depending on the location of the dissection, may include: • Blood pressure discrepancy between the arms • Pulse delay between arms and legs • Listening for fluid in the lung and for a new hea
