Mitch McConnell fell earlier this month, before freezing mid-sentence this week

Republican also fell and sustained concussion four months ago and reportedly uses wheelchair in crowded airports

Mitch McConnell, the Republican leader in the US Senate, suffered an initially unreported fall earlier this month, before a very public health scare this week revived questions about his age and fitness.

On Wednesday, while speaking to reporters at the US Capitol, the 81-year-old appeared to freeze for nearly 20 seconds. Another Republican senator, John Barrasso of Wyoming, a doctor, then escorted his leader away from the cameras.