How to Detect a Minor Stroke

A minor stroke, also called a mini-stroke or a TIA, usually does not cause permanent damage like major strokes do. However, it is significant that you recognize the symptoms because they are often a forerunner to a more serious stroke. Nearly half of all full-blown strokes happen within two days after the mini-stroke, according to the National Stroke Association. If you successfully recognize that you did have a mini-stroke, you may be able to prevent a more serious stroke from happening to you. Symptoms are the same for both mini-strokes and strokes that are more serious.

Instructions

• 1

  Assess if you have a sudden numbness or weakness anywhere in your body. Stroke victims usually feel numb or weak in their face, arm or leg, and the numbness is generally limited to only one side. If you are with someone who you think had a stroke, ask that person to smile to see if one side of the face drops. Then have him raise his arms to see if he can raise them evenly.

• 2

  Notice if you are confused. Since a stroke affects the brain, if you had one, you may have trouble speaking or understanding what is happening. You will be confused. If you want to determine if someone you are with had a stroke, ask her to say something to see if she is slurring her words.

• 3

  Determine if you suddenly have poor vision. A stroke can affect one or both eyes.

• 4

  Determine if you feel dizzy. If you had a stroke, you may lose your balance and will have difficulty when you try to walk.

• 5

  Assess if you have a sudden, severe headache. Sometimes people get a sudden headache after a stroke.