Peripheral Neuropathy

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Peripheral neuropathy is any condition that involves damage to peripheral nerves outside your brain or spinal cord. These conditions often cause weakness, numbness, and pain, usually in the hands and feet, but can also affect other areas and body functions like digestion and urination.

The peripheral nervous system sends information from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body through motor nerves. The peripheral nerves also send sensory information to the central nervous system through sensory nerves.

The nerves in the peripheral nervous system are divided into three categories and have a specific job.

  • Sensory nerves that receive sensation, such as temperature, pain, vibration, or touch, from the skin
  • Motor nerves that control muscle movement
  • Autonomic nerves that control functions such as blood pressure, sweating, heart rate, digestion, and bladder function

Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy depend on the nerve affected and can include:

  • Gradual onset of numbness, prickling, or tingling in your hands and feet. These sensations can spread upward into your arms and legs
  • Sharp, jabbing, throbbing, or burning pain
  • Extreme sensitivity to touch
  • Pain during activities that shouldn’t cause pain, such as pain in your feet when putting weight on them, or when they’re under a blanket
  • Lack of coordination and falling
  • Muscle weakness
  • Feeling as if you’re wearing gloves or socks when you’re not
  • Inability to move if motor nerves are affected
  • Heat intolerance
  • Excessive sweating or not being able to sweat
  • Bowel, bladder, or digestive problems
  • Drops in blood pressure, causing dizziness or lightheadedness

Peripheral neuropathy can happen for many reasons. Some include:

  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Alcohol use disorder
  • Vitamin and nutrient deficiencies
  • Autoimmune and inflammatory conditions
  • Medications and toxins
  • Tumors
  • Genetic conditions
  • Infections
  • Hansen disease (leprosy)
  • Trauma and surgery
  • Vascular disorders
  • Idiopathic neuropathy

A combination of methods are used to diagnose peripheral neuropathy including:

  • Symptoms and medical history
  • Physical and neurological exams
  • Lab, diagnostic, and imaging tests

Treatment of peripheral neuropathy varies depending on its cause. Treatments can include:

  • Medications
  • Surgery
  • Physical therapy
  • Devices and wearable equipment
  • Podiatry and foot care
  • Other pain treatments such as acupuncture, transcutaneous electrical stimulation, injections, or surgery to implant a spinal cord stimulator

Some causes of peripheral neuropathy are preventable. Some preventative or precautionary steps you can take include:

  • Eating a balanced diet
  • Staying physically active and maintaining a healthy weight
  • Wearing safety equipment as needed
  • Managing chronic conditions
  • Avoiding alcohol in excess
  • Avoiding exposure to toxins, poisons, and heavy metals

If you are experiencing symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, you can schedule an appointment with a doctor at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center, please call (718) 206-7001.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Causes of Chest Pains That Aren’t Heart-Related

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Chest pains are usually associated with heart problems. However, there are many other causes that you should be aware of.

Chest pain that isn’t heart-related is called noncardiac chest pain. Noncardiac chest pain is often described as feeling a painful squeezing or tightness in your chest, or a pressure of heaviness behind your sternum. The pain may be felt on the right or left side or in the middle of your chest.

Many symptoms may occur with noncardiac chest pain including:

  • A sour taste or a sensation of food entering the mouth
  • Trouble swallowing
  • Pain that gets better or worse when you change body position
  • Pain that gets worse when you breathe deeply or cough
  • Tenderness when you push on your chest
  • Pain that continues for many hours

You may not be able to tell the difference between a heart attack and noncardiac chest pain, for that reason it is important to take any chest pain seriously. If it is sudden or new and lasts longer than five minutes, go to the emergency room. If it goes away after a few minutes, you should see your healthcare provider as soon as possible to determine the cause.

Some causes of noncardiac chest pain include:

  1. Digestive issues
    • Heartburn
    • Swallowing disorders
    • Gallbladder or pancreatic problems
  2. Muscle and bone injuries
    • Costochondritis
    • Sore muscles
    • Injured ribs
  3. Lung-related issues
    • Pulmonary Embolism
    • Pleurisy
    • Collapsed lung
    • Pulmonary Hypertension
  1. Panic attacks
  2. Shingles

Some risk factors associated with noncardiac chest pain can include:

  • High Body Mass Index (BMI)
  • Smoking or tobacco use
  • Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Anxiety

Some immediate tests used to help diagnose the cause of chest pain include:

  • ECG or EKG
  • Blood tests
  • Chest X-ray
  • CT scan

Follow-up tests may need to be done depending on the results of the first tests. They include:

  • Echocardiogram
  • CT scan
  • Stress tests
  • Coronary catheterization

Treatment for chest pain varies depending on the cause. Some treatments can include:

Medications if the cause isn’t heart-related such as:

  • Blood thinners
  • Acid-reducing medicines
  • Antidepressants

Surgical procedure if the cause isn’t heart-related such as:

  • Lung re-inflation

If you are experiencing any chest pain symptoms, you can schedule an appointment with a doctor at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center, please call (718) 206-7001. If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911.

 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Can Diabetes Be Reversed?

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Diabetes is a disease that occurs when our blood sugar or glucose is too high. This happens when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or can’t use insulin properly to regulate blood glucose.

Diabetes is diagnosed in a significant amount of people in our population; the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently reported that approximately 38.4 million people in the United States have diabetes, which is 11.6% of the population.

Complications such as vision loss, amputation, heart attacks, stroke, kidney disease, and even death can occur as a result of diabetes.

There is no cure for diabetes; however, the disease can be managed, and in some cases reversed through treatment and (or) healthy weight loss and lifestyle changes.

Reversing diabetes or putting it in remission means managing blood sugar levels and keeping your A1c below 48 mmol/mol or less than 6.5%, without needing to take medications for three months or more.  This may be achieved by:

  • Losing weight, which may help cells respond to insulin
  • Exercising by doing a combination of aerobic and strength training activities
  • Eating a healthy diet that is rich in lean proteins, vegetables, fruits, healthy fats and whole grains
  • Avoiding foods that are high in carbohydrates

It is important to note that diabetes reversal or remission is not permanent. Therefore, there is a chance that symptoms can return.  Please see your doctor right away if you are experiencing any of the following signs that are indicative of your diabetes being out of remission.

  • Frequent infections
  • Increased hunger, thirst, or urination
  • Blurry vision
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Slow healing wounds
  • Tingling or numbness in hands or feet

In addition, continue to see your healthcare provider regularly to ensure your diabetes is being managed well.

To schedule an appointment with a doctor at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-7001.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

What Parents Should Know About Oral Nicotine Pouches

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cigarette smoking hit a historic low in 2023, with the adult smoking rate dropping to 11%. Because of the steady decline of smokers over the years, tobacco companies have tried other ways to retain customers as well as attract new ones by introducing new products.

One of those new products is oral nicotine pouches. Oral nicotine pouches are small permeable pouches typically placed between the lip and the gum containing crystalized nicotine powder in various flavors. Although little is known about the product, nicotine pouches have become one of the fastest-growing categories, increasing sales from about 126 million units to over 800 million units between 2019 and 2022.

Oral nicotine pouches are aimed at adults who are looking for a tobacco-less, smoke-free alternative to cigarettes as they try to stop smoking. However, according to the 2023 National Youth Tobacco Survey conducted by the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in October of 2023, 1.5% of middle and high school students reported using nicotine pouches in the previous 30 days.

Tobacco companies sell nicotine pouches in attractive packaging and assorted flavors, including citrus, berry, peppermint, coffee, and mango. Researchers are concerned that this marketing tactic is likely to appeal to young people who may not be aware of the harmful effects of nicotine. Some social media influencers have promoted the use of nicotine pouches by showing how they use them in their daily lives, discreetly placing them in their mouths at work and school, as well as doing taste tests.

“Nicotine pouches are marketed as a nicotine product that provides a buzz without the harmful effects of tobacco or smoking. However, people using these products should be aware that ‘tobacco-free’ does not mean ‘risk-free’”, says Alexandra Howell, DMD, Oral Medicine Specialist and Assistant Professor in the Department of Oral Diagnostic Services at Virginia Commonwealth’s University’s School of Dentistry.

Despite the long-term health impact of nicotine pouches being unknown, the side effects of its use can include:

  • Nicotine addiction
  • Irritation of the gums
  • Lung problems
  • Infertility problems
  • Stomach problems
  • Sore mouth
  • Hiccups
  • Nausea

Nicotine pouches can also present several cardiovascular risks. The use of these products can lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure increasing the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, heart disease, and potential heart attacks.

To speak with a Family Medicine doctor at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center about smoking cessation, please call (718) 206-6942.

 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Blood Clots

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Blood clots are gel-like clumps of blood that form in your arteries and veins. Blood clots help control bleeding, but can also cause serious medical issues like deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and heart attack.

Blood clots are the first line of defense if something damages your blood vessels. This is why bleeding usually stops after a few minutes when you cut yourself. You can also develop a blood clot when you have been immobile for a long time or have medical conditions that increase your risk of getting them.

Blood clots are made of small colorless fragments of cells produced by your bone marrow called platelets. They are also made of a sticky blood protein that looks like strings called fibrin. Platelets and fibrin work together to seal injured areas of your blood vessels.

You can have blood clots anywhere in your body. When they develop in the veins of your arms and legs it’s called deep vein thrombosis. Blood clots that form in the arteries of your lungs are called pulmonary embolism. A stroke occurs when blood clots block blood flow to your brain. When blood clots are in your heart, they can cause a heart attack.

If you are experiencing leg pain, swollen legs, or skin discoloration, these may be symptoms of deep vein thrombosis. Chest pain or shortness of breath can be symptoms of blood clots in your lungs or heart.

Some other possible symptoms of blood clots to be mindful of include:

  • A cough that produces blood sputum
  • A fast heartbeat
  • Lightheadedness
  • Pain that spreads to the shoulder, arm, back, or jaw
  • Sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm, or leg
  • Sudden difficulty speaking or understanding speech

Some conditions focus on blood clots such as blood clotting issues. Some blood clotting disorders include:

  • Factor V Leiden- an inherited disorder and most common blood clotting disorder. It slightly increases your risk of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.
  • Prothrombin Gene Mutation- an inherited condition that slightly increases your risk of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.
  • Antiphospholipid Syndrome- an autoimmune disorder that increases the risk of blood clots.

People who have an increased risk of developing blood clots include:

  • People 65 years of age or older
  • Pregnancy
  • People who are obese
  • People who have cancer
  • Those on birth control or hormone therapy
  • Smokers
  • Immobile people

Ways to reduce the risk of developing blood clots include:

  • Avoid sitting for long periods
  • Drinking plenty of fluids
  • Changing your lifestyle

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you can schedule an appointment with a doctor at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center, please call (718) 206-7001. If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911.

 

 

 

 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

How to Increase Your Stamina

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Stamina is the ability to sustain prolonged physical or mental effort.

Physical stamina is the ability to put in the maximum amount of effort during a physical activity, over some time while maintaining optimal performance.

Low stamina can negatively impact a person’s overall quality of life. Low physical stamina is associated with:

  • Poor athletic performance
  • Fatigue
  • Weight gain
  • Decreased sex drive
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Difficulty sleeping

High physical stamina can lead to:

  • Increased energy levels
  • Improved cardiovascular health
  • Better sleep
  • Higher sex drive
  • Improved athletic performance

An effective way to build up physical stamina is by doing aerobic exercises and high-intensity interval training (HIIT).

Mental stamina, sometimes called mental toughness, is the ability to handle life’s stresses, perform well under pressure, and maintain focus despite distractions.

Mental stamina has multiple components that can be referred to as the four C’s of mental toughness including:

  • Control: feeling like you are in control of your life, circumstances, and emotions.
  • Commitment: sticking with your goals even when it gets difficult.
  • Challenge: viewing potential threats to your success as opportunities instead.
  • Confidence: believing in yourself and your ability to succeed.

Low mental stamina is associated with:

  • Difficulty with daily tasks
  • Depression
  • Increased stress levels
  • Decreased attention span
  • Irritability

High mental stamina can lead to:

  • Increased attention span
  • Improved ability to focus on a task
  • Decreased stress levels
  • Increase in productivity

There are several ways to build mental stamina, including:

  • Setting “S.M.A.R.T.” goals- increase mental stamina by setting specific, measurable, action-oriented, realistic, and time-efficient goals.
  • Find your motivation- focus on “why” you are working on a particular task to help motivate you to keep going.
  • Seek outside support- find people who will support you as you pursue your goals, such as a coach or other people who are pursuing similar goals.
  • Be positive- maintain a positive attitude about your progress and visualize yourself achieving your goal.
  • Stay focused- mental stamina depends on your ability to pay attention to a task for an extended amount of time.
  • Be aware of your environment- remove potential distractions from your environment when working on tasks to help build mental stamina.
  • Practice stress management techniques- reducing stress can improve mental stamina. Techniques such as mindfulness, stress therapy, and diaphragmatic breathing can be helpful.

Remember stamina can be built up, whether it’s physical or mental.

If you are experiencing any medical problems while exercising, you can schedule an appointment with a neurologist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center, please call (718) 206-7001.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Listeria, What You Should Know

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There have been products such as deli meats, vegetables, dips and salsas, and plant-based milk recalled due to a recent listeria outbreak.

Listeria or Listeria monocytogenes, is a species of pathogenic or disease-causing bacteria found in moist environments, soil, water, decaying vegetation, and animal feces. It can survive and even grow under refrigeration and other food preservation measures. 

Most people encounter listeria or listeriosis as a foodborne illness as it can be found in hot dogs, deli meats, fresh vegetables, fresh fruits especially melons, and unpasteurized dairy products. These foods have the highest risk of listeria contamination. However, any food that is improperly handled or prepared can be affected. 

The listeria bacteria is unique compared to other types of bacteria because it survives and multiplies in low temperatures, including refrigerators and freezers. It can multiply to dangerous levels during storage. It also doesn’t change the smell, taste, or texture when it contaminates food like other bacteria.

Most people get listeriosis from eating contaminated foods. The listeriosis incubation period (the time between when you first get infected and when you first show symptoms) varies. It usually takes one to two weeks. But it can be as short as a couple of days or as long as three months.

The symptoms of a listeria infection include:

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Muscle aches
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea

If the listeria infection spreads to your nervous system, symptoms may include:

  • Headache 
  • Stiff neck
  • Confusion or changes in alertness
  • Loss of balance
  • Convulsions

Those at risk of severe infection from listeria include:

  • Pregnant women
  • People older than 65 years old
  • People with weakened immune systems 
  • People suffering from chronic diseases

A blood test is often the most effective way to determine whether you have a listeria infection. Samples of urine and spinal fluid may also be tested. 

The treatment of listeria infection varies depending on the severity of the signs and symptoms. Most people with mild symptoms require no treatment at all. More serious listeria infections can be treated with antibiotics.

Some ways to prevent a listeria infection include:

1) Keeping things clean- wash your hands thoroughly with warm, soapy water before and after handling or preparing food. After cooking, use hot, soapy water to wash the utensils, cutting boards, and other food preparation services.

2) Scrub raw vegetables- clean raw vegetables with a scrub brush or vegetable brush under plenty of running water.

3) Cook your food thoroughly- Use a food thermometer to make sure your meat, poultry, and egg dishes are cooked to a safe temperature. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of a listeria infection you can see a gastroenterologist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 206-7001. If you or someone you are with are experiencing an emergency, call 911 immediately.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Gastroparesis Awareness Month

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August is Gastroparesis Awareness Month. Gastroparesis is a condition that affects the normal spontaneous movement of the muscles or motility in your stomach.

There are many signs and symptoms of gastroparesis which include:

  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Abdominal bloating
  • A feeling of fullness after eating a few bites
  • Vomiting undigested food that was eaten a few hours earlier
  • Acid reflux
  • Changes in blood sugar levels
  • Lack of appetite
  • Weight loss and malnutrition

Many people with gastroparesis don’t have any noticeable signs or symptoms of the condition.

The cause of gastroparesis is unclear, however, some cases have been caused by damage to the vagus nerve which controls the stomach muscles. The vagus nerve helps manage the complex processes in the digestive tract like signaling the muscles in your stomach to contract and push food into the small intestine. 

The vagus nerve can also be damaged by diseases such as diabetes, as well as complications from stomach, or abdominal surgeries. 

Other factors that can increase your risk of gastroparesis include:

  • Esophageal surgery
  • Infection, usually from a virus
  • Certain medications that slow the rate of stomach emptying, such as narcotic pain medications
  • Scleroderma- a connective tissue disease
  • Nervous system diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease or MS
  • An underactive thyroid

Women are more likely to develop gastroparesis than men. The condition can lead to several complications, including:

  • Severe dehydration
  • Malnutrition
  • Undigested food that hardens and remains in your stomach
  • Unpredictable blood sugar changes
  • Decreased quality of life

Doctors use several tests to help diagnose gastroparesis so they can rule out conditions that cause similar symptoms. These tests include:

  • Gastric emptying tests
  • Scintigraphy
  • Breath tests
  • Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy
  • Ultrasound

The treatment for gastroparesis begins with identifying and treating the underlying condition. For example, if diabetes is the cause of your gastroparesis, your doctor can work with you to help control it. 

Other treatments may include:

  • Changes to your diet 
    • Eating smaller meals more frequently
    • Chewing food thoroughly
    • Eating well-cooked fruits and vegetables instead of raw
    • Avoiding fibrous fruits and vegetables
    • Choosing mostly low-fat foods
    • Eating soups and pureed foods if liquids are easier to swallow
    • Drinking about 34-51 ounces of water a day
    • Avoiding carbonated drinks, alcohol, and smoking
    • Waiting for at least two hours to lie down after a meal
    • Taking a daily multivitamin
  • Medications
    • To stimulate the stomach muscles
    • To control nausea and vomiting
  • Surgical treatment

If you are suffering from symptoms of gastroparesis, schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center by calling (718) 206-6742.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Employee Spotlight Shines on Dolores Warren, RN, BSN, MSN

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This month, we are proud to shine our Employee Spotlight on Dolores Warren, RN, BSN, MSN, Assistant Director of Nursing.

Dolores has been with Jamaica Hospital Medical Center for 12 years. She grew up in Guyana and came to the United States when she was in her early 20’s. In Guyana, she attended St John’s Elementary School, Cummings Lodge High School, Accountancy and Business Education Center. Dolores received her Associate in Nursing degree from Queens Borough Community College, her BSN from York College, and her MSN Nursing Executive degree from Chamberlain University. She is now also an adjunct professor of nursing at  Plaza College where she is able to share her knowledge with nursing students.

Dolores joined Jamaica Hospital as a nursing cadet in 2011 and returned as an RN in 2012, because there has always been a sense of caring and  support at the hospital. In 2013 she was promoted to Assistant Head Nurse of 5 North and five years later she became the Nurse Manager of that same unit. During that time, she assisted the organization with establishing the Acute Stroke Unit and becoming a Comprehensive Stroke Designated hospital.

Dolores currently lives in Nassau County. She has three children, two boys and one girl. In her free time she likes to visit the local parks and beaches. She enjoys gardening and her favorite type of movies are good mysteries. One of the places she likes traveling to is St. Martin because the beaches are great and the people are very friendly and welcoming. Dolores likes Thai and Caribbean dishes. The types of music she enjoys are R&B, Jazz, and her favorite artist is Ed Sheeran. The sports she enjoys are football and basketball. Most important to her are family, health, happiness and progression.

Dolores enjoys working at Jamaica Hospital because of the colleagues she works with and nursing leadership. She appreciates the fact that this is an organization that supports internal growth. She also values the diversity of the patients that we are able to assist. We are very happy to have Dolores as part of our team and look forward to her remaining with us for many more years into the future.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Aortic Dissection

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An aortic dissection is a serious condition that occurs when blood rushes through a tear in a weakened area of the aorta’s wall causing it to split or dissect.

Symptoms of aortic dissection can be similar to the symptoms of other heart problems like a heart attack. These signs and symptoms include:

  • Sudden severe chest or upper back pain.
  • Sudden severe stomach pain.
  • Loss of consciousness.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Symptoms that are similar to those of a stroke.
  • Weak pulse in one arm or thigh.
  • Leg pain
  • Difficulty walking

Aortic dissections are divided into two groups, depending on which part of the aorta is affected. These groups are:

  • Type A- is more common and dangerous. It involves a tear in the part of the aorta where it exits the heart. A tear may also occur in the upper aorta.
  • Type B- involves a tear in the lower aorta only.

Some factors that can raise your risk of aortic dissection include:

  • Hypertension
  • Hardening of the arteries
  • Aortic aneurysm
  • An aortic valve defect
  • A narrowing of the aorta at birth

Certain genetic diseases can also increase the risk of aortic dissection. They include:

  • Turner syndrome
  • Marfan syndrome
  • Other connective tissue disorders.
  • Inflammation of the arteries

Other potential risk factors for aortic dissection include:

  • Sex
  • Age
  • Pregnancy
  • Cocaine use
  • High-intensity weightlifting.

Aortic dissection is uncommon and usually occurs in men in their 60s and 70s. The condition can cause many complications including:

  • Death due to severe internal bleeding.
  • Organ damage, such as kidney failure or life-threatening intestinal damage.
  • Stroke
  • Aortic valve damage or rupture into the lining around the heart.

It can be challenging to detect an aortic dissection because symptoms can mimic those of other diseases and health problems which can delay a diagnosis.

A doctor may think you have aortic dissection if you have:

  • Sudden tearing or ripping chest pain.
  • A difference in blood pressure between the right and left arms.
  • Widening of the aorta on a chest X-ray.

Tests to diagnose aortic dissection include:

  • Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE)
  • CT scan of the chest.
  • MRA

An aortic dissection is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. Treatment can include surgery or medications depending on the area of the aorta involved.

Treatments for Type A and Type B aortic dissection may include:

  • Surgery
  • Medications

After treatment, you may need to take medication to control your blood pressure for the rest of your life. You may also need regular CT or MRI scans to monitor your condition.

If you are experiencing any symptoms of aortic dissection, you can schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Cardiology Department by calling (718) 206-7100. If you are experiencing an emergency, please dial 911 right away.

 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.