Greenville News: Most have never heard of aortic dissection, that’s a problem
When many Americans hear the words “cardiovascular emergency,” they think of a heart attack or stroke. Almost no one thinks of an aortic dissection, even though recognizing this condition quickly can mean the difference between life and death. The sudden passing of U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham at age 71 on July 11 reminds us why greater awareness is urgently needed.
An aortic dissection is uncommon, but it can strike without warning and requires immediate medical attention. It occurs when a tear or rupture develops in the inner wall of the aorta, allowing blood to separate the layers of the artery. About 13,000 Americans die from the condition each year.
Although the risk is higher in older adults and those with conditions like high blood pressure or underlying cardiovascular disease, an aortic dissection can affect people who may not realize they are at higher risk, such as patients with connective tissue disorders like Marfan syndrome or Loeys-Dietz syndrome or those with a bicuspid aortic valve.
Sen. Graham’s death was a wake-up call to the dangers of an aortic dissection, but Americans shouldn’t have to learn about conditions like this only after a tragedy makes headlines. We have spent decades teaching Americans to recognize stroke symptoms through campaigns like F.A.S.T. But we have no comparable public awareness for aortic dissection, despite the fact that every minute matters.