Death after brief illness.

He died following ruptured aorta. Most deaths following a brief illness are often cardiovascular-related. The aorta is the largest blood vessel in the body and is under high pressure. We have the thoracic and abdominal aorta. 

Thoracic aorta has three portions: Root, Tubular and Ascending portions. The thoracic is prone to congenital malformation. The abdominal serves the entire lower part of the body. 

The dimension of the Aorta is in the region of 20mm/2cm. Uncontrolled hypertension and malformation of the thoracic aorta could lead to rupture and sudden death. 

That explains why people with high blood pressure, resistant and poorly controlled, must have a heart scan done with emphasis on the aortic dimensions. 

When the aorta is above 50 mm or 5cm, close monitoring/ surveillance is recommended and planned surgery advocated when diameter is 53cm and above.

There are individuals in our community suffering from unknown resistant hypertension others with unknown congenital malformation. 

In order to avoid rupture of the AORTA, brief illness and risk of death, please go see a cardiologist, and ask for ultrasound of the aorta, thoracic and abdominal. Alternatively, your GP could request a CT of the aorta from the radiologist.

Please keep your BP no more than 130/70. Monitor blood sugar and cholesterol profiles. No smoking. Minimal alcohol consumption and tailor your weight.  Rupture of dilated aorta could claim your life. 

By Fred Perry Kemah: He is a Consultant Cardiologist, Oadby, Leicester, UK