The sudden death of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham from South Carolina has been attributed to an aortic dissection, a medical emergency that occurs when a tear in the inner layer of the aorta—the body's largest artery—allows blood to surge through, separating the layers of the aortic wall. According to the American Heart Association, this condition can be rapidly fatal if not diagnosed and treated promptly.
An aortic dissection is a tear in the wall of the aorta that creates a flap, potentially leading to complications such as heart attack, bleeding, or rupture. Symptoms may include sudden severe chest pain, back pain, neck or jaw pain, and feelings of faintness, weakness, or shortness of breath. These symptoms can mimic other cardiovascular emergencies, making rapid diagnosis essential. While a ruptured aneurysm or severe dissection can be immediately fatal, prompt diagnosis and treatment can be lifesaving.
Dr. Manesh Patel, American Heart Association volunteer president and chief of cardiology at Duke University School of Medicine, noted that aortic dissection is more common in men than women, with an estimated incidence of 5 to 30 people per million. Most people experience a dissection between ages 50 and 70. Risk factors include atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, genetic connective tissue disorders, tobacco use, and family history of aortic aneurysms or dissections. Patel emphasized that individuals with these risk factors should discuss aortic aneurysm risk and screening with their physicians.
The 2022 American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Aortic Disease stresses rapid recognition and treatment of acute aortic syndromes, family screening including genetic testing and imaging for first-degree relatives of affected patients, and consistent imaging and surveillance practices.
The American Heart Association can connect reporters with experts to discuss the nature of aortic dissection, its risk factors and warning signs, advances in diagnosis and treatment, and the importance of family history and screening. The Association receives over 85% of its revenue from sources other than corporations, with strict policies to prevent donations from influencing its science content. More financial information is available here.
An aortic dissection is a devastating event that often strikes without warning. Understanding the risk factors and symptoms, and seeking immediate medical attention, can make the difference between life and death. As the medical community continues to advance in diagnosis and treatment, public awareness remains a critical component in preventing fatalities from this silent killer.
