WASHINGTON, Jan. 9 (UPI) -- Vice President Dick Cheney was expected back in the office Monday following his sudden, early morning trip to the hospital because of breathing problems.
"He was feeling fine ... and plans attending meetings at the White House today," spokesman Scott McClellan said in relating a telephone conversation Monday between President Bush and Cheney.
Cheney, who has a history of heart-related problems, was taken to a hospital in Washington about 3 a.m. because of breathing problems and was released about four and a half hours later. His spokesperson said physicians determined medication Cheney was taking for a foot ailment had caused fluid retention and also shortness of breath.
Doctors prescribed a diuretic and released him.
McClellan Monday dismissed a reporter's question on whether Cheney's continuation in office as a question given his health problem. "The vice president is doing a great job for the American people and he is an important member of the team," he said.
