A stark fact to jump start Aortic Dissection Week (17 to 23 September). People with Marfan syndrome are at inherently greater risk of an aortic dissection. Early diagnosis and proper management of MFS are critical to survival.

The symptoms below are those that may signal or indicate an aortic dissection:

  • Sudden onset, severe pain usually in the chest, neck or back 
  • Pain can be described as 'ripping' or 'tearing'
  • shortness of breath/difficulty breathing
  • Rapid, weak pulse 
  • Pale, clammy skin
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Loss of sensation in limbs
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • A feeling of impending doom


With early diagnosis and proper supervision, Marfan syndrome and any attendant heart involvement can be managed and treated.