A micro stroke is a transient ischemic attack (TIA), according to the University of Michigan Medical center (UMM). It is also referred to as a mini stroke or a little stroke. The TIA may be a warning sign of a true stroke that could occur in the future if the individual's health status does not change. The UMM explains that the TIA is caused by a temporary change in blood supply to the areas of the brain that leads to a decline in brain function. The symptoms of a micro stroke are similar to those of a stroke but due to their brevity are referred to as a micro stroke.
Physical Symptoms
eMedTV.com describes the physical symptoms of a stroke to include sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, hand or leg especially on one side of the body. There may be pain or tightness in the same areas. It is likely that an individual will experience sudden confusion, loss of balance or coordination as indicated by eMedTV.com. Other physical symptoms that are identified by the Mayo Clinic include trouble walking, dizziness, lightheadedness, loss of balance and/or the loss of coordination.
Mental Changes
eMedTV.com points out that a micro stroke may lead to sudden confusion, difficulty speaking, inability to understand speech, sensation of spinning and/or a loss of consciousness. These symptoms can be short term.
Other Symptoms
The Mayo Clinic explains that a micro stroke can cause seizures, sudden collapse, temporary or permanent paralysis, vomiting, a sudden or severe headache and/or vision changes including double vision, blurring and blindness. They warn that the longer an individual goes without treating the stroke, the more likely it will result in permanent disability.
