Symptoms of a Mini Stroke

also including major Stroke Symptoms

A mini stroke is also known as a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA). It has the same symptoms as a major stroke, except that it lasts only a few minutes, is usually milder, and sometimes has no apparent residual effects.

About 10 percent of strokes are preceded by TIAs. Someone who's had one or more TIAs is 10 times more likely to have a stroke than someone of the same age and sex who has not. As a result, TIAs are extremely important stroke warning signs. Don't ignore the symptoms of a stroke! Call 911 NOW. Get medical help immediately.

Stroke Symptoms

If you notice one or more of these symptoms of a stroke, don't wait. Call 911 immediately for an ambulance; get the person to a hospital right away! Expect the person to protest -- denial is common -- especially if it's "only" a mini stroke. Don't take "no" for an answer. Insist on taking prompt action. Treatment can be more effective if given quickly. Every second counts!

Not all symptoms of a stroke occur every time. Don't ignore the symptoms, even if they go away!

Important: If you suspect that your loved one is having or had a stroke, check the time. When did the first symptoms of a stroke start? You'll be asked this important question later by the health care professionals who will treat your loved one.

Typical symptoms of a stroke ...

Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
Sudden confusion, loss of memory, or loss of consciousness
Difficulty speaking or understanding others
Sudden loss, blurring or dimness of vision in one or both eyes
Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
Sudden, severe headache with no known cause
Nausea and vomiting along with any of the symptoms above

Next Step — Call 911 NOW

— Information Source —

This information was found on the MEDLINEplus Web site. For more information, click on stroke symptoms.

MEDLINEplus is a gold mine of up-to-date, quality health care information assembled by the Library of Medicine at the U.S. National Institutes of Health. Its information is extensive, well-written, easy-to-understand, and covers virtually all diseases and medical conditions, and generic and brand name drugs. To go to MEDLINEplus, click here.