A mini stroke, known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA), occurs when "blood supply to part of the brain is briefly interrupted. Symptoms last only 1 hour to 24 hours," according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes. The New York University Stroke Center says "Stroke is the third-leading cause of death." Thus, any symptoms of mini-stroke require immediate medical care as they may be a warning of an upcoming stroke.
The American Academy of Neurology describes symptoms of a mini stroke as numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg, sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding, sudden trouble seeing, sudden trouble walking, dizziness, or a sudden severe headache. Call 911 immediately if experiencing any symptoms of a mini stroke. Symptoms of a mini stroke may arise due to smoking, cardiac disease, high blood pressure, stress, alcohol abuse, diabetes, lack of exercise or obesity.
Numbness, Mental Confusion and Trouble Speaking
Numbness may overtake a single part of the body, multiple areas of the body, or even an entire side of the body during a mini stroke. Mental confusion may also arise during a mini stroke. A person may be unable to understand what someone is saying to them or the mini stroke victim may be speaking in gibberish, uttering unintelligible words.
Difficulty Walking, Dizziness or Headache
When a person suddenly feels as if his body will not move properly to walk, that may mean a mini stroke is occurring. Any unusual jerkiness in movement is a symptom that requires a doctor's attention. Also, sudden dizziness or an unusual feeling of headache may indicate that a mini stroke has begun.
Acknowledging Symptoms
Many have trouble accepting that they are experiencing a mini stroke. They may say that trouble seeing is due to dizziness or that numbness in a limb just means that the limb fell asleep. Thus it is crucial to know what the symptoms of a mini stroke are, accept that the symptoms may mean a serious health crisis is underway, and immediately seek medical care. Symptoms of a mini stroke must be handled immediately. It is crucial to call an ambulance or go to the emergency room as soon as symptoms arise. Early treatment means less severe damage to the brain or body.
