November 26, 2007

Cheney In Hospital For Irregular Heartbeat

Vice President Dick Cheney will be undergoing an evaluation for an irregular heartbeat later today in what his office describes as a routine test, FOX News is reporting.

Cheney will be examined at George Washington University Hospital, where he is regularly treated for his cardiovascular ailments. Cheney, who turns 67 in January, has had four heart attacks since 1978, and his semi-regular trips to GWUH are generally followed with close media interest as a result. In July, the vice president had minor surgery to replace a battery in his pacemaker. In March, Cheney was treated for a blood clot in his left leg.

FOX News reports that Cheney's office is downplaying the seriousness of his condition, as is usually the case when he makes a trip to the hospital. The vice president is expected back home this evening.

Cheney was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, which may be treated with a small electrical shock. According to the American Heart Association, Cheney's condition means that his heart's upper chambers "quiver instead of beating effectively."

Posted at 3:54 PM
Posted to: Bush Administration, Dick Cheney
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