Aortic Dissection: The Deadly Condition That Killed Senator Graham

An aortic dissection occurs when the inner layer of the aorta — the body's main artery — tears suddenly, allowing blood to surge between the layers. Experts describe the pain as "like a knife to the back," and the condition can mimic a heart attack, making it extremely difficult to diagnose and treat in time. It was the cause of death of US Senator Lindsey Graham.