A light cerebral stroke is the term for a stroke that has mild effects. There are two types of mild strokes. One is called a transient ischemic attack (TIA), which, according to Medline Plus, leaves no residual affects. The other is a stroke that leaves very little residual damage. Recognizing cerebral stroke symptoms is key to getting early intervention, which can help increase the odds of stroke recovery.
Muscle Weakness
One of the most common stroke symptoms is muscle weakness. According to the Mayo Clinic, this weakness is usually present on one side of the body. While a person who has had a light cerebral stroke can usually still move both of his arms or legs, one will often be weaker or may feel heavier than the other. This weakness can also cause slower movements or trouble with coordination. Muscle weakness from light stroke may decrease over time, or may improve with strengthening exercises.
Tingling or Numbess
Another common stroke symptom is decreased sensation on one side of the body. A person may have some tingling or pins and needle-like sensations in one arm, leg or even face. Sometimes this can even be present over an entire side of the body. After a light cerebral stroke, problems with sensation may improve or may even return to normal, depending on the degree of residual damage in the brain.
Speech Problems
Speech problems can occur after a TIA or a mild stroke, according to Medline Plus. A person may have trouble forming words, or they may have slurred speech. If a person has had a TIA, this symptom often disappears within 24 hours. However, a person who has had a mild stroke may take longer to recover their speech. Exercise and speech therapy can help recovery, though some residual speech problems may always be present.
Confusion
Even a light cerebral stroke can cause confusion. Often, however, this confusion can improve with treatment or over time. Initially, a person may have difficulty finding the right words or understanding conversation, or they may have trouble with simple problem-solving skills. After a mild stroke, however, symptoms often improve. If a person has had a TIA, they can expect to recover from their confused state within a few hours with no residual effects.
Visual Problems
A light cerebral stroke can also cause visual problems, either because the muscles that control the eyes are weak or because the stroke took place in the visual center of the brain. Visual problems can range from blurry or double vision, to a visual field cut (difficulty seeing out of one eye or one side of the eye). Visual problems may improve with muscle strengthening or over time.
Vertigo
Medline Plus reports that vertigo can be a problem with some types of light cerebral stroke, including TIAs. A person may feel off-balance, or may experience spinning sensations when in certain positions. For some people, vertigo improves over time. For others, however, it may persist.
