What is a transient ischemic attack? Symptoms explored as Mitch McConnell stroke fears emerge in wake of viral video

Health experts predict Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell suffered from a transient ischemic attack during his most recent press conference. On Wednesday, July 26, the 81-year-old took to the podium for his standard briefing when he unexpectedly froze. His Republican colleagues went on to assist and get him to exit the session, where he was seen taking small and slow steps. His team has since claimed that he was simply feeling “lightheaded.”

Videos of Mitch McConnell’s concerning press conference moment have spread like wildfire across social media. At the moment when he froze in front of the cameras, senator John Barrasso leaned over to him and asked him whether he had more to add to his statement. Barrasso also asked:

McConnell’s aid has since announced that he “felt lightheaded and stepped away for a moment... he came back to handle Q and A, which as everyone observed was sharp.”

This is not the first time McConnell has sparked health concerns. In March, he tripped and fell while attending a dinner at a hotel. He suffered from a broken rib and a concussion. The politician was subsequently treated in a rehabilitation facility.

As Mitch McConnell continues to be the topic of conversation online, medical experts told The New York Times that it is likely that he suffered from a transient ischemic attack. Neurologist Dr. Schwamm told the publication:

What is a transient ischemic attack? Health experts believe Mitch McConnell suffered from a stroke

According to the Cleveland Clinic, a transient ischemic attack is similar to a temporary stroke or a “mini stroke.” This takes place when there is a lack of blood blow to a part of your brain. It has been reported that if someone suffers from the same, it needs to be treated like a “medical emergency” as it is unclear how long it can last.

In threatening cases, there can be a severe lack of blood in the brain, leading to brain cells malfunctioning and dying.

Symptoms of a transient ischemic attack are similar to that of a typical stroke. According to the Cleveland Clinic, a few symptoms include:

Mayo Clinic suggests seeking medical attention immediately as it may lead to a more serious stroke.

Following the concerning press conference, Mitch McConnell told reporters that he was “fine” and that he got “sandbagged.” He was referring to President Joe Biden tripping over a sandbag at the US Air Force Academy. McConnell also claimed that the Potus called to check on him following the occurrence.

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