Senator Lindsey Graham’s reported death has brought attention to aortic ruptures, a rare but often deadly cardiovascular emergency. Medical experts say the condition itself is uncommon, but the underlying risk factors behind it are far more widespread.

Understanding Aortic Rupture

According to physicians, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, smoking, obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, and chronic stress can all weaken the body’s largest artery — the aorta — over time. Atherosclerosis, or plaque buildup in the arteries, can weaken the wall of the aorta and make it vulnerable to tearing or rupture.

Doctors say symptoms are usually sudden and severe. The most common warning sign is intense chest pain, often described as sharp or tearing, sometimes radiating to the upper back or between the shoulder blades. In some cases, a person may also faint or pass out.

Prevention and Treatment

Both experts stressed that this is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment. They say anyone experiencing sudden chest or back pain should call 911 or go to the emergency room right away. Patients with a known enlarged aorta or family history of aneurysms may be at especially high risk and should alert emergency crews to that history immediately.

Physicians also emphasized that prevention is possible. Managing blood pressure, controlling cholesterol and blood sugar, avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting enough sleep can all reduce the risk of serious aortic disease. Doctors say regular checkups and paying attention to early signs of heart disease — including chest tightness or shortness of breath with normal activity — may help identify problems before they become life-threatening.

Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.