Princeton, NJ Health Care Guide Articles

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A Mini Stroke May be a Warning Sign

July 12, 2018

Symptoms of a stroke that only last a few minutes and result in no noticeable permanent damage may seem harmless, but they may actually be warning signs of a future stroke.

“People who experience a transient ischemic attack (TIA), which is often referred to as a mini stroke, need to take the warning seriously,” says Paul Kaiser, MD, a member of the Penn Medicine Princeton Health Medical Staff. “A significant number of people who experience a TIA may eventually have a stroke, some may even have one within the first few days to a week after a TIA.”

Seeking prompt emergency medical attention is extremely important if you experience symptoms of a TIA or stroke, says Dr. Kaiser, who is board certified in neurology, vascular neurology and clinical neurophysiology.

The causes of both a TIA and a stroke are the same — the blood supply to part of the brain is blocked — often the result of a buildup of cholesterol-containing fatty deposits called plaques in an artery. With a TIA, the blockage is brief, resulting in short-term symptoms and, as a result, less likelihood of damage. Still, proper medical evaluation is needed to determine whether you have had a TIA, a stroke or another medical episode and whether treatment is needed.

Watch for These Symptoms of a Mini Stroke

Symptoms of a TIA may include sudden onset of:

Weakness, numbness or paralysis of the face, arm or leg, usually on one side
Slurred or garbled speech
Difficulty comprehending language
Double vision or loss of vision in one or both eyes
Dizziness or loss of coordination
Severe headache

Know the Risks

While anyone can experience a TIA, those at the highest risk have a family history of TIAs and stroke; are over the age of 55; have previously had a TIA; smoke cigarettes; or have a condition such as high blood pressure or cholesterol, diabetes, or a heart or blood vessel disorder.

“Properly managing any health conditions, maintaining a healthy weight and healthy lifestyle by not smoking and limiting alcohol are extremely important in reducing your risk for a TIA or stroke,” says Dr. Kaiser.

To find a physician affiliated with Princeton Health, call 1.888.742.7496, or visitwww.princetonhcs.org/directory.