How is the chest pain described in patients with aortic dissection?

In patients with aortic dissection, chest pain is often characterized by a ripping or tearing sensation. This description is pertinent because the pain usually arises suddenly and is severe, reflecting the nature of the dissection as the layers of the aorta tear apart. This acute and intense sensation can radiate to the back or between the shoulder blades, which is indicative of the serious nature of the condition. The description of the pain as “ripping or tearing” effectively captures the urgency and the potential for rapid deterioration associated with aortic dissection, requiring immediate medical attention.