Fox Nation Streams Lindsey Graham Special After Senator's Death at 71

Q: What is an aortic dissection, the rare condition that caused the senator's sudden death?

An aortic dissection is a rare, life-threatening tear in the inner lining of the aorta, the body’s main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. When that inner layer tears, blood can force its way between the layers of the artery wall, splitting them apart and creating a “false channel.” This can cut off blood flow to vital organs or cause the aorta to rupture. It is a medical emergency because it can become fatal within minutes or hours if not treated quickly. Doctors say symptoms often include sudden, severe chest or back pain, sometimes described as tearing or ripping, along with fainting, shortness of breath, weakness, or pain spreading to the neck, jaw, or abdomen. Because those signs can resemble a heart attack or other cardiac emergencies, rapid diagnosis is critical. Aortic dissection is uncommon, but it is a major cause of sudden death. It is seen most often in people between 50 and 70 and is more common in men. Major risk factors include high blood pressure and atherosclerotic or arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease, which weakens and damages artery walls over time. Some inherited connective-tissue disorders can also raise the risk. There are two main forms. Type A affects the part of the aorta closest to the heart and is generally the most dangerous, usually requiring emergency surgery. Type B affects the descending aorta and may sometimes be managed with medication or other procedures, depending on severity.

3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jul 23

Fox Nation has released “The Life and Legacy of Lindsey Graham,” a new special tracing the late senator’s rise from rural South Carolina poverty to national Republican influence after his death on July 11 at 71.
Interviews and archival clips center on the family tragedy that shaped him: Graham lost both parents 15 months apart and became legal guardian to his younger sister, Darline, to keep her out of foster care.
Former aides, friends and colleagues describe that period as the foundation of Graham’s sense of duty, portraying him as caretaker, sibling and future public servant long before his decades in the Senate.
Darline Graham Nordone has since emerged in the political aftermath, declining to fill the remainder of his Senate term but announcing a run for a full term to continue his legacy.