WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Former Vice President Dick Cheney, who has a long history of heart problems, was under observation at a hospital on Saturday after falling ill.
Cheney, 69, who has had five heart attacks in 32 years, was admitted to George Washington University Hospital for tests on Friday. Cheney spokesman Peter Long said he was expected to remain hospitalized through the weekend for tests and observation.
Cheney, who was vice president under President George W. Bush and played a big role in planning the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, fell ill on Friday. His doctor advised him to check into the hospital, a statement from Cheney's office said.
Cheney's most recent heart attack occurred in February. He also suffered heart attacks in 1978, 1984, 1988 and 2000.
In 2001, Cheney had a heart defibrillator implanted to monitor his heart and shock it back into a normal rhythm if abnormal beating occurred.
Cheney's office provided no further details on Saturday.
