Guo Yaoqi passed away due to aortic dissection. This article will analyze the causes, warnings, and symptoms of aortic dissection, as well as how to perform self-checks.
- byVic

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Aortic dissection is a complex and highly lethal cardiovascular disease, with a mortality rate of up to 90%. Recently, former Minister of Transportation Guo Yaoqi passed away after being hospitalized due to aortic dissection, drawing significant attention. This condition typically occurs during drastic changes in temperature and can lead to severe consequences such as systemic ischemia and shock. The primary causes include aging, hypertension, and connective tissue diseases, with men aged 50 to 60 being at high risk. Typical symptoms include severe chest pain, pallor, and difficulty breathing. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial; patients should have regular check-ups and pay attention to their health.
Aortic dissection is a cardiovascular disease that has drawn particular attention due to the sudden incident involving former Minister of Transportation Kuo Yao-chi. This disease is prone to occur in environments with drastic temperature changes, and the mortality rate can be as high as 90%. If not treated promptly, 48% of patients may die within two days, making it one of the deadliest cardiovascular conditions.
According to the data, the aorta is the main vessel between the heart and all body organs, responsible for supporting blood transport. Its structure consists of three layers, and when the inner wall ruptures, blood enters between the middle and outer layers, leading to aortic dissection. This condition usually develops rapidly, and patients may instantly lose consciousness, making timely medical attention crucial.
The primary causes of aortic dissection include aortic degeneration, age factors, high blood pressure, arteriolosclerosis, and external factors such as chest trauma and pregnancy, which may also trigger the disease. The typical patient population is men aged 50 to 60, and those with a history of hypertension need to be especially cautious.
Before the onset of aortic dissection, patients may experience symptoms such as chest pain, pale complexion, or difficulty breathing, and may present in a way that is commonly misinterpreted, which makes early diagnosis challenging.
For those at high risk for conditions like Marfan syndrome, monitoring one's own health is particularly important. Doctors then utilize physical examinations, X-rays, ECGs, and CT scans for diagnosis to enable timely intervention and treatment.
In terms of treatment, depending on the condition, medication or surgical intervention may be necessary. Doctors typically choose the appropriate treatment method based on the location and severity of the dissection.
To prevent aortic dissection, experts recommend: quitting smoking and drinking, engaging in regular exercise, being mindful of diet and sleep patterns, managing hypertension and other high health issues, and undergoing regular health check-ups.