Sen. Chris Murphy discharged from hospital after small hemorrhagic stroke
The Connecticut Democrat left Johns Hopkins Hospital on Friday after being admitted last weekend for a neurological event.
By Jillian Foster ·
Sen. Chris Murphy, a Democrat from Connecticut, left Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore on Friday. He had been admitted last Saturday after suffering a medical event. Dr. Jose Suarez, the chief of neurosciences critical care at the hospital, confirmed the diagnosis. It was a small hemorrhagic stroke.
Murphy initially contacted his staff and public after feeling numbness in his arm. He was watching his son play hockey at the time. The senator described the incident in a written statement released that same day. He noted the sudden onset of the symptom during the game.
In a follow-up statement issued Friday, Murphy addressed his recovery. He called the experience scary for himself and his family. The senator said he is working toward a full recovery. He is staying engaged with his team and colleagues remotely. His staff continues to handle legislative priorities and constituent service. Murphy emphasized that the work of his office remains uninterrupted.
Dr. Suarez commented on the senator’s progress. He stated that Murphy has shown tremendous improvement. The doctor said he expects a full recovery following rehabilitation. This assessment is based on the current rate of improvement observed in the hospital.
Dr. Kelly Matmatri, chair of neurology at Hartford Hospital, provided context on typical recovery paths. She is not Murphy’s treating physician. She explained that many patients require additional physical or occupational therapy after discharge. Matmatri said the fastest recovery usually occurs in the first few weeks and months. However, recovery can continue for a longer period. She also noted the importance of preventing a second stroke.
Matmatri identified high blood pressure as the primary risk factor for hemorrhagic strokes. She listed high cholesterol and diabetes as other possible risk factors. She said doctors will look at these elements to help prevent future events. The American Stroke Association promotes the acronym BE FAST to help people recognize symptoms. These signs include balance loss, eye changes, facial drooping, arm weakness, and slurred speech. The group advises calling 911 if any of these signs appear. There is no announcement yet on when Murphy will return to the Senate floor.
