A mini-stroke, also called a transient ischemic attack (TIA), happens when blood flow to part of the brain is temporarily blocked. Symptoms may last only a few minutes and then disappear, but a TIA is a warning sign of possible future stroke and needs medical attention.
5 warning signs of a mini-stroke in older adults
- Sudden weakness or numbness
- Especially on one side of the face, arm, or leg.
- Sudden trouble speaking or understanding speech
- Slurred speech, difficulty finding words, or confusion.
- Sudden vision changes
- Loss of vision, blurred vision, or double vision in one or both eyes.
- Sudden dizziness or loss of balance
- Trouble walking, coordination problems, or feeling unusually unsteady.
- Sudden severe headache or unusual neurological symptoms
- A sudden, intense headache or other sudden changes in thinking or movement can be concerning.
Remember the FAST warning signs:
- F — Face: Does one side of the face droop?
- A — Arms: Is one arm weak or numb?
- S — Speech: Is speech strange or difficult?
- T — Time: Call emergency services immediately if these occur.
Even if symptoms disappear, a TIA should be evaluated promptly because it can signal a higher risk of a full stroke.
If you or someone nearby is having sudden stroke-like symptoms right now, seek emergency medical help rather than waiting to see if they improve.
