Aorta

The aorta is the largest artery in the human body, originating from the left ventricle of the heart and extending down through the chest and abdomen. It serves as the main highway for oxygen-rich blood leaving the heart, branching into smaller arteries that deliver blood to every organ and tissue. In an average adult, the aorta is about 30 centimeters long and roughly 2.5 centimeters in diameter — roughly the width of a garden hose.

The aorta is divided into several sections: the ascending aorta (rising from the heart), the aortic arch (curving over the top), the descending thoracic aorta (running through the chest), and the abdominal aorta (passing through the abdomen before branching into the iliac arteries that supply the legs). Major branches off the aorta include the coronary arteries (feeding the heart), the carotid arteries (supplying the brain), and the renal arteries (feeding the kidneys).

Conditions affecting the aorta can be life-threatening. Aortic aneurysms occur when a weakened section of the aortic wall balloons outward, creating a risk of rupture. Aortic dissection — a tear in the inner wall of the aorta — is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment. Regular screening through ultrasound is recommended for men over 65 who have ever smoked, as abdominal aortic aneurysms often develop without symptoms.

Aortic health is directly linked to cardiovascular risk factors including high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, high cholesterol, and smoking. Conditions like aortic stenosis (narrowing of the aortic valve), aortic aneurysms, and aortic dissections are among the most serious cardiovascular emergencies. Screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm is a one-time ultrasound recommended for men aged 65-75 who have a history of smoking.

If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure or atherosclerosis, maintaining good blood pressure control is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your aorta from aneurysm formation and other complications.