Preliminary medical findings show that US Senator Lindsey Graham died after suffering an aortic dissection caused by arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease, ending uncertainty surrounding his sudden death at 71.
Graham died on Saturday evening, July 11, aged 71, after suffering a sudden medical emergency at his Washington home. His office initially said he died following a “brief and sudden illness.”
Preliminary findings later identified the cause as an aortic dissection, or ruptured aorta, linked to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The findings provided the first medical explanation for a death that drew international attention because of Graham’s recent overseas travel and prominent foreign-policy work.
Emergency responders reportedly went to Graham’s Capitol Hill home after receiving a cardiac-arrest call.
Trump Rejects Foul Play After Final Conversation
President Donald Trump said he spoke with Graham shortly before the senator became ill. According to Trump, Graham said he felt tired after returning from the lengthy Ukraine trip. However, he gave no indication that he faced a serious medical crisis.
Trump also dismissed suggestions of foul play. Available reporting has produced no credible evidence linking Graham’s death to his Ukraine visit, diplomatic activities or any deliberate act.
Photo: The White House / Wikimedia Commons / Public Domain
How an Aortic Dissection Occurs
An aortic dissection occurs when the inner layer of the aorta, the body’s main artery, suddenly tears. Blood then enters the artery wall and forces its layers apart, which can restrict blood flow to vital organs or cause the aorta to rupture.
The condition is a life-threatening medical emergency and may cause sudden, severe chest or back pain, fainting, breathing difficulties or cardiac arrest.
Immediate diagnosis and treatment are critical because a major rupture can lead to fatal internal bleeding.
