Thank you for your query. Yes it is possible for it to be a mini stroke. However it is also possible that this was due to a heart pathology. In certain situations such, there can be a temporary compromise in circulation of blood to the brain, when the blood vessels in the heart spasm.(printzmetal angina) or atherosclerosis that compromised the flow due to the strain of his work. An ECG would show changes only if the heart muscle has been damaged or if any defects in the electrical circuit of the heart exist. I would do a full cardiac workup (electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, blood tests to check for cardiac muscle damage, a stress test if indicated), complete blood count, lipid profile, blood glucose levels, Thyroid profile. X-ray cervical spine to rule out spondylosis. A thorough medical history along with family history, personal habits (smoking, alcoholism), obesity, sedentary lifestyle . Any positive history can increase his risk for cardiovascular disease, stroke & diabetes. I would also do a CT brain & angiography of the brain & heart circulation if any positive history & clinical findings are present. BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo) causes dizziness with tinnitus but not gasping for air, and should be checked for, if no other diagnosis is made. Inhalation of toxic fumes/chemical at work should also be rule out. Hope this helps. Please get back to us if you have further questions. Wish you both good health.