5 Signs of a Mini-Stroke (TIA) in Older Adults
A mini-stroke, also called a transient ischemic attack (TIA), happens when blood flow to part of the brain is temporarily blocked. Symptoms often last minutes to hours and may disappear completely, but a TIA is a warning sign of a possible future stroke and needs medical attention.
1. Sudden weakness or numbness
- Weakness, tingling, or loss of feeling in the:
- Face
- Arm
- Leg
- It often affects one side of the body.
2. Sudden trouble speaking or understanding
- Slurred speech
- Difficulty finding words
- Confusion
- Trouble understanding what others are saying
3. Sudden vision changes
- Blurred or double vision
- Loss of vision in one or both eyes
- A sudden “curtain-like” loss of sight
4. Sudden dizziness or loss of balance
- Trouble walking
- Poor coordination
- Feeling unusually unsteady or clumsy
5. Sudden severe headache or unusual symptoms
- A sudden, intense headache (especially if unusual for the person)
- Sometimes accompanied by confusion, nausea, or neurological changes
Remember: Act FAST
If any of these symptoms appear—even if they go away—seek emergency medical help:
- F — Face drooping
- A — Arm weakness
- S — Speech difficulty
- T — Time to call emergency services
A TIA may be brief, but it should not be ignored. Early evaluation can help identify causes and reduce the risk of a major stroke.
