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Lee Kuan Yew discharged from hospital

Ex-PM Lee Kuan Yew, seen here in a 2012 file photo, was hospitalised after a mini-stroke.

[UPDATED 17/2 1815: Lee Kuan Yew has been discharged from hospital and is now recovering at home.

Statement from the Prime Minister's Office: Mr Lee Kuan Yew has been discharged from Singapore General Hospital and is resting at home. The doctors are following up with him to optimise his anti-coagulation therapy, in order to minimise the risk of further Transient Ischaemic Attacks.]

Founding father of Singapore, Lee Kuan Yew, was admitted to Singapore General Hospital on Saturday after suffering a mini-stroke, said a statement from the Prime Minister's Office. 

The former Prime Minister and Minister Mentor, currently 89 years old, suffered what is called in medical terms a suspected Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA) associated with a prolonged episode of atrial fibrillation (i.e. irregular heartbeat).

A TIA occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain stops for a brief period of time. A person will have stroke-like symptoms which clear in less than 24 hours.

He has since recovered but will remain warded for a few days for observation.

Back in 2008, Lee underwent successful treatment for abnormal heart rhythm and in 2010, he was hospitalised for a chest infection, cancelling plans to attend the wake of Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.

His wife of 60 years, Kwa Geok Choo, also passed away in her sleep in 2010.