What is typically the first sign of aortic dissection?

The typical presentation of aortic dissection often includes a sudden onset of severe chest or back pain, which is a hallmark symptom of this condition. The pain is characteristically described as sharp or tearing in nature and can radiate to the back, neck, or abdomen, depending on the location of the dissection. This acute pain arises from the disruption of the aortic wall and the subsequent activation of pain receptors in the aorta.

Recognizing this symptom is crucial, as it can guide further diagnostic evaluation and management of aortic dissection, which is a life-threatening emergency. Prompt identification leads to timely imaging studies and interventions that are essential to prevent complications such as rupture or organ ischemia.

In contrast, severe abdominal pain, dizziness and syncope, or fever are not the initial or most common signs associated with aortic dissection. While these symptoms might be present in some cases or as complications, they do not represent the classic onset pattern that clinicians typically look for when suspecting an aortic dissection. Thus, the sudden onset of chest or back pain remains the most indicative sign of this critical condition.