WASHINGTON — Congressman John Larson of Connecticut, a Democrat serving his 13th term, revealed on Tuesday night that he experienced a complex partial seizure during a speech on the House floor the previous day.

Larson, 76, stated that after the incident, he was evaluated by the House attending physician who recommended further testing. Results from these tests confirmed the seizure diagnosis, as disclosed in a statement released by his office.

Complex partial seizures, which typically last anywhere from 30 seconds to two minutes, can cause individuals to appear as though they are daydreaming or staring with a blank expression. They might also exhibit involuntary movements like chewing. During his speech, Larson exhibited these symptoms as he suddenly ceased speaking, dropped his arm, and appeared to stare blankly while seemingly making chewing gestures.

Initially, Larson’s office hinted that the incident could have been an “adverse reaction to a new medication.” However, he later specified that it might be connected to his history with heart health, particularly referencing a heart valve replacement he underwent years prior.

“I had a heart valve replacement 15 years ago due to a congenital variation in the shape of my aortic valve,” he explained in his statement. “Individuals with similar conditions might face symptoms such as fleeting changes in speech or movement, which is what I experienced.”

Following the incident, Larson received a new prescription designed to significantly lower the risk of recurrence. As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, he expressed his intention to return to his congressional responsibilities the following day.

“I am eager to get back to serving the constituents of Connecticut’s First District,” Larson concluded, looking forward to continuing his work in Congress.