It’s Topic Tuesday- Winter and Aortic Dissections
- keyanazahiri
- 42 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Welcome to 2026, Aortic Hope Family! We are hoping for a happy, safe, and healthy new year for all. If you’ve been following along our weekly blog posts this month, you’ve been introduced to some of the basics of the aorta. As we enter the colder months, great attention is placed on avoiding colds and the flu. However, today we want to raise awareness about an association that many patients may not be aware of: the link between cold temperatures, blood pressure, and aortic dissection.
What is an aortic dissection?
As a reminder, the aorta is the main blood vessel that carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Aortic dissection happens when a tear develops in the inner layer of the aortic wall causing blood to flow between the layers and separate them. Several studies have shown higher rates of aortic dissections during the winter months.
Why are aortic dissections more common during the winter?
One of the main reasons aortic dissections are more common in winter months is thought to be because of how our bodies respond to the cold. When our bodies are exposed to cold weather, we try to conserve heat by narrowing our blood vessels, through a process called vasoconstriction. While this helps keep us warm, it also has an important side effect – raising our blood pressure. Higher blood pressure means a greater force pushing against the walls of the aorta. In those with risk factors and larger aortic aneurysms, repeated or sustained increases in blood pressure make weakened areas of the aorta more likely to tear.
What are the warning signs?
Warning signs of an aortic dissection include sudden, severe chest or upper back pain (often described as tearing or ripping), pain that moves to the neck, jaw, or abdomen, shortness of breath, and fainting or dizziness. If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms, call 911 and seek medical care immediately.
How can I reduce my risk?
Stay warm and avoid prolonged exposure to cold
Monitor blood pressure regularly
Take all medications as prescribed
Do not smoke
Avoid sudden exertion in the cold. Shoveling snow or heavy lifting can cause sudden blood pressure spikes and increase risk of dissection.
Seek emergency care for warning signs
Takeaway
As we move through the winter months, awareness is one of the most powerful tools we have. Understanding how cold weather affects the body allows us to take proactive steps to protect our heart health. At Aortic Hope, we are committed to education, support, and empowering you with the knowledge needed to stay safe throughout every season.
Best wishes,
Keyana Zahiri - Brown Medical Student
Sources:
Comments