Around half a million Americans experience a transient ischemic attack or mini stroke every year, with 20% going on to suffer a stroke within three months.
A TIA is a serious warning sign that your brain isn’t getting enough blood flow, so even if the symptoms seem mild and fade quickly, you should never ignore them. At Memphis Neurology, we want our patients and their families to recognize the signs early, take immediate action, and prevent a future stroke.
A TIA occurs when blood flow to part of the brain suffers a temporary blockage. Unlike a stroke, the blockage doesn’t cause permanent damage. However, the symptoms mimic those of a stroke and usually appear suddenly. TIAs are a red flag that you could be at high risk of having a major stroke in the near future.
When it comes to brain health, every second matters. Recognizing a TIA and seeking prompt medical care can save your life, so let’s go over the seven signs you should never ignore.
One of the most common symptoms of a TIA is sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body. You may notice that your arm feels heavy, your grip is weak, or your leg suddenly feels like it won’t support you. This can happen in the face, arm, or leg and usually affects just one side.
Another key warning sign is difficulty communicating. You may find yourself slurring your words, speaking incoherently, or struggling to find the right words. In some cases, people can hear others talking but can’t make sense of what they’re saying. If speech problems like these appear suddenly, it could signal a TIA.
Problems such as blurred/double vision or temporary blindness in one or both eyes often accompany a TIA. Some people describe it as a curtain coming down over their field of vision. Any sudden vision change requires a medical evaluation.
If you suddenly feel dizzy, lose your balance, or stumble while walking, a TIA may be the cause. However, because dizziness has many causes, it’s important to consider whether this symptom appears alongside other TIA warning signs.
While not as common as weakness or speech problems, a sudden, severe headache can occur with a TIA. People sometimes describe it as the worst headache of their lives. If it comes on quickly with symptoms like vision loss or confusion, don’t wait; get emergency care right away.
A TIA can cause sudden confusion, difficulty concentrating, or problems understanding what’s happening around you. Family members may notice that the person seems “out of it” or unable to follow a conversation. This mental fog is a significant warning sign.
A drooping smile, difficulty lifting an eyebrow, or an inability to move part of your face can signal a TIA. These symptoms may only last a few minutes, but they mimic the signs of a stroke. Quick recognition and treatment are crucial.
Remember the acronym FAST, an easy way to remember the most urgent TIA and stroke symptoms:
If you or someone near you shows any of these signs, call for emergency help immediately.
Even though TIA symptoms usually fade, the risk doesn’t. Studies show that about 6.4% of people who experience a TIA eventually have a stroke or heart attack.
The best defense against a stroke is prevention. Managing high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and heart disease can lower your risk. Quitting smoking, exercising regularly, and eating a heart-healthy diet all play a role in keeping your blood vessels healthy.
We work closely with patients to develop personalized prevention strategies, identify hidden risk factors, and provide the care you need to stay healthy.
A transient ischemic attack is your body’s warning that a bigger event may be around the corner. By recognizing the signs, acting quickly, and working with specialists, you can protect your health and reduce your risk of a major stroke.
If you or a loved one has experienced symptoms of a TIA, contact Memphis Neurology by phone or via the online form and take the first step toward safeguarding your brain health.
