What is aortic dissection? The rare heart condition linked to Lindsey Graham's cause of death that can strike without warning. Check causes, symptoms, risk factors and when to seek emergency help

The sudden death of US Senator Lindsey Graham has sparked widespread interest in what aortic dissection is, the causes of aortic dissection, and Graham's cause of death. Preliminary findings from the District of Columbia Medical Examiner's Office said Lindsey Graham's cause of death was aortic dissection due to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease, a rare but life-threatening medical emergency.

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What is alarming is that this condition can develop suddenly and requires immediate treatment to improve the chances of survival, experts said. If you've been wondering what aortic dissection is, how it happens, and who is most at risk, here's everything doctors want people to know.


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What is aortic dissection?

An aortic dissection occurs when the inner layer of the aorta—the body's largest artery that carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart develops a tear. Blood then rushes through that tear, separating the layers of the artery wall. If the outer layer ruptures, the condition can quickly become fatal due to severe internal bleeding, according to Mayo Clinic.

Doctors have described aortic dissection as one of the most dangerous cardiovascular emergencies because every minute matters. Without prompt diagnosis and treatment, the risk of death rises rapidly, especially in the most severe form known as Type A aortic dissection.

Lindsey Graham cause of death explained

According to preliminary findings released by the DC Medical Examiner, Lindsey Graham's cause of death was aortic dissection due to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease refers to the hardening and narrowing of arteries caused by plaque buildup over time, which can weaken blood vessels and increase the risk of serious complications. Officials noted that the death certificate remains pending until toxicological and microscopic examinations are completed.

The news has drawn attention to what is aortic dissection, as many people had never heard of the condition before Graham's sudden death.

What causes aortic dissection?

When discussing aortic dissection causes, doctors said there is rarely a single reason. Instead, multiple factors can weaken the aortic wall over many years.

Common aortic dissection causes include:

• Long-standing high blood pressure
• Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis)
• Existing aortic aneurysm
• Inherited connective tissue disorders such as Marfan syndrome
• Chest trauma from accidents
• Certain congenital heart conditions
• Increasing age, especially after 60
• Smoking and uncontrolled cholesterol levels

Experts stressed that high blood pressure remains one of the biggest contributors because it places constant stress on the aortic wall.

What are the warning signs?

One of the reasons aortic dissection is so dangerous is that its symptoms often resemble those of a heart attack.

Common symptoms include:

• Sudden, severe chest pain
• Sharp pain between the shoulder blades or upper back
• Pain described as "tearing" or "ripping"
• Shortness of breath
• Fainting
• Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
• Difficulty speaking
• Severe abdominal pain
• Leg pain or difficulty walking

Doctors say anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek emergency medical care immediately.

Who is most at risk of developing arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease?

Although aortic dissection is considered rare, certain people have a significantly higher risk.

These include:

• Adults over 60
• Men
• People with uncontrolled hypertension
• Smokers
• Those with a family history of aortic disease
• Patients with connective tissue disorders
• Individuals with existing aneurysms or severe cardiovascular disease

Experts estimate the condition affects only a few people per 100,000 each year, but when it occurs, it progresses rapidly.

Can aortic dissection be prevented?

Doctors say there is no guaranteed way to prevent every case, especially those linked to inherited disorders. However, lowering cardiovascular risk can significantly reduce the chances.

Experts recommend:

• Keeping blood pressure under control
• Quitting smoking
• Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels
• Exercising regularly
• Eating a heart-healthy diet
• Managing diabetes
• Attending regular medical check-ups, especially if there is a family history of aortic disease

Why Lindsey Graham's death has renewed awareness

The news surrounding Lindsey Graham's cause of death has introduced millions of people to a condition they may never have heard of before. While aortic dissection is uncommon, cardiologists say awareness is crucial because recognizing symptoms early and seeking immediate emergency care can dramatically improve survival.

Understanding what is aortic dissection, learning about aortic dissection causes, and knowing the warning signs could help people act faster during a medical emergency, potentially saving a life.