Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) said a fall caused by post-polio syndrome led to his recent hospitalization and a bout of pneumonia.

The explanation follows a period of public speculation regarding the Republican leader's health, which coincided with the death of Sen. Lindsey Graham earlier this week.

McConnell, 84 [1], addressed the mystery surrounding his absence in statements released Sunday. He said the fall left him briefly unconscious, which then led to the development of pneumonia.

"I had a fall caused by post-polio syndrome, was briefly unconscious, and then developed pneumonia," McConnell said.

The timing of the medical emergency drew significant attention due to the proximity to the death of his colleague. McConnell said the circumstances of his hospitalization right after the death of Sen. Graham led to many questions, and he wanted to set the record straight.

While the senator confirmed he is currently recovering, he did not provide a specific timeline for his return to official duties. He said he does not yet have a date for when he will return to the Senate floor.

Post-polio syndrome is a condition that can affect polio survivors decades after the initial infection, often resulting in new muscle weakness, and instability. The senator's disclosure provides a medical context for the incident that had previously remained undisclosed during his time in the hospital.

“"I had a fall caused by post-polio syndrome, was briefly unconscious, and then developed pneumonia."”

The absence of a firm return date for the 84-year-old leader, combined with the disclosure of post-polio syndrome, may trigger discussions regarding the long-term leadership stability of the Republican caucus. This health update comes at a sensitive time for the party following the death of Sen. Lindsey Graham.