What is a TIA (transient ischemic attack) or “mini- stroke”?
* A sudden but temporary interruption of the blood supply to the brain resulting in symptoms that typically last for several minutes, but not more than 24 hours. Stroke Warning Signs * Sudden numbness or weakness of face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body * Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding * Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes * Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination * Sudden severe headache with no known cause Stroke Risk Factors * Controllable risk factors include high blood pressure, smoking, elevated cholesterol levels, obesity, physical inactivity and diabetes. * Uncontrollable risk factors include age, gender, race/ethnicity, family history, prior stroke or TIA (mini-stroke).