A “mini stroke,” medically known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA), happens when blood flow to part of the brain is temporarily blocked. The symptoms may last only a few minutes and then disappear completely, which is exactly why many people underestimate them.
But a TIA is not harmless. The American Stroke Association describes it as a warning stroke because it can signal an increased risk of a full stroke in the days or weeks that follow. TIAs occur before about 15% of strokes.
Older adults should be particularly alert because stroke risk increases with age. Here are five symptoms that should never be dismissed.
1. Sudden Weakness or Numbness on One Side
One of the most important TIA warning signs is sudden weakness or numbness affecting one side of the body.
It may involve the:
