Veteran Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, one of President Donald Trump's closest allies, has died at the age of 71. As per the preliminary findings released by the District of Columbia's medical examiner, he passed away after suffering an aortic dissection. Lindsey Graham Dies At 71 Lindsey Graham's office initially described his death as the result of a “brief and sudden illness.” His office said, “On the evening of Saturday, July 11, Senator Lindsey Graham passed away after a brief and sudden illness. Senator Graham's family appreciates prayers at this time and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult period.”Graham was a prominent South Carolina Republican and former Air Force lawyer who served in Congress for more than three decades. He had turned 71 years old just two days before his death.In a statement on Truth Social, US President Donald Trump wrote: "Melania and I are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Senator Lindsey Graham. Lindsey was a true American Patriot, one of the best people and Senators I have ever known. He was always there when our Nation needed him, and he gave everything he had to the people of South Carolina and the United States. We will miss him greatly. Our prayers are with his family, friends, and everyone who loved this truly great man." The preliminary medical examiner’s report later confirmed that the underlying cause was aortic dissection due to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease, commonly known as the hardening of the arteries. According to reports, a final death certificate will be issued after additional toxicological and microscopic testing. Graham’s passing has sparked discussion about aortic dissection, a rare but extremely dangerous cardiovascular emergency that requires immediate medical treatment. What Is An Aortic Dissection? An aortic dissection occurs when a tear develops in the inner layer of the aorta, the body's largest artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Blood surges through this tear, forcing the layers of the artery wall apart, effectively “dissecting” them. When the wall of this aorta tears, blood flow to vital organs can become compromised, and the weakened artery may rupture, often leading to a fatal internal bleeding. Why Is Aortic Dissection Dangerous? Cardiologists consider aortic dissection to be one of the most life-threatening cardiovascular emergencies. The condition can rapidly lead to complications like: Rupture of the aorta StrokeHeart attackMultiple organ failureSudden deathThe risk of death significantly increases if the condition is not diagnosed and treated quickly. There are several causes of aortic dissection. Major risk factors include hypertension, atherosclerosis, smoking, high cholesterol, connective tissue disorders like Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, congenital abnormalities of the aortic valve or previous heart surgery In Graham's case, preliminary findings stated that the aortic dissection was caused due to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease, indicating that long-term hardening of the arteries likely contributed to the fatal tear.Also read: Donald Trump Says Physical Checkup At Walter Reed 'Checked Out Perfectly' Amid Recent Health Scrutiny Symptoms That Should Never Be Ignored An aortic dissection often begins suddenly. As the symptoms of an aortic dissection can mimic those of a heart attack, immediate medical evaluation is essential. Symptoms may include: Pain that spreads to the back, neck, or abdomenShortness of breathFaintingSweatingWeakness or paralysis on one side of the bodyDifficulty speakingWeak pulse in one arm compared with the otherLeg pain or loss of circulationHow To Prevent It? According to experts, the risk of aortic dissection can be reduced by making several lifestyle changes early on: Keeping blood pressure under controlManaging cholesterol levelsQuitting smokingMaintaining a healthy weightExercising regularlyEating a heart-healthy dietTreating pre-existing cardiovascular diseaseUndergoing regular screening if there is a family history of aortic disease