A mini stoke is also called a TIA, or transient ischemic attack. A TIA is an indicator that there are issues in the blood flow to the brain, but unlike a stroke, a TIA does not result in permanent damage, notes the National Institute of Neurologic Disorders and Stroke, or NINDS. However, a person who experiences a mini stroke is at risk for a stroke, according to NINDS. The symptoms of a mini stroke are the same as those of a stroke, except that the effects of a mini stroke tend to resolve on their own, notes NINDS, while those of a stroke do not. A person who has had a mini stroke may experience several key symptoms.
Weakness or Paralysis
A sudden weakness or paralysis on one side of the body or one side of the face are prototypical symptoms, notes MedlinePlus. This is due to the wiring of the brain. The right side of the brain controls the left side of the body and the left side of the brain controls the right side. So, if there is an issue with blood flow in the left side of the brain, the right side of the body will be affected, and vice versa. Another possibility is tingling or numbness on one side of the body or changes in the sensation of pain, pressure and temperature, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Confusion and Changes in Mental State
Mental confusion, which is notable by trouble speaking and comprehending, is a symptom that may occur after a mini stroke, notes the American Heart Association. Disorientation may be present as well as slurred speech. UMMC reports that there could also be changes in alertness that might manifest in sleepiness, unresponsiveness and possibly unconsciousness. Memory loss might also be present, notes UMMC.
Vision Difficulties
Vision difficulties can include trouble seeing through one or both eyes, according to the American Heart Association. Double vision can occur, but there can also be temporary blindness, or a blurring and dimming of vision, notes UMMC. This is sometimes described to be similar to a shade or veil slowly descending across the field of vision.
Balance and Coordination Difficulties
Often, because of circulation problems at the base of the brain, there is a loss of coordination and balance, which can result in sudden falls, trouble walking and dizziness, notes the American Heart Association. Other symptoms may include vertigo, imbalance, clumsiness and poor coordination, according to MedlinePlus.
Headache
A sudden headache with no known cause may accompany a mini stroke, notes the American Heart Association.
Considerations
A TIA is a medical emergency. A prompt evaluation within 60 minutes of symptom onset is necessary to determine the cause of the TIA and therapy required, notes NINDS. Medscape Today reports that half of all strokes occur within the first 24 hours after a TIA, which highlights the need for emergency intervention as quickly as possible to prevent permanent damage.
