Mark Kirk suffers stroke

Published: Monday, January 23, 2012

Updated: Monday, January 23, 2012 13:01

AP Photo

In this Nov. 1, 2010 photo, U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk, R-Ill., looks to a crowd of supporters during a campaign rally in Wheaton, Ill. A spokesperson for Sen. Mark Kirk says the Illinois Republican has suffered a stroke and has undergone surgery early Monday, Jan. 23 2012 to relieve swelling around his brain. The 51-year-old Kirk checked himself into Lake Forest Hospital in Illinois. He was later transferred to Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, where tests showed that he had suffered a stroke

(AP) Doctors say a stroke suffered by Sen. Mark Kirk of Illinois has affected his left arm and leg and some facial movement.

Dr. Richard Fessler says part of Kirk's skull was removed Monday to alleviate pressure in his brain. Fessler says Kirk is in intensive care but doctors are happy with his status.

Doctors say the Republican appeared to recognize those around him and respond to commands.

The 52-year-old Kirk checked himself into a suburban hospital Saturday before being transferred to Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. Kirk's office says he had a tear in the carotid artery on the right side of his neck. Carotid arteries carry blood to the brain.

Kirk was elected to the Senate in 2010, winning the seat formerly held by Pres. Barack Obama.

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Mark Kirk suffers stroke

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