TIAs
A TIA (transient ischemic attack) is a medical condition that is often referred to as a "mini-stroke." TIAs often start out just like a stroke but then resolve without leaving any noticeable symptoms. They cause symptoms that improve after a shorter period of time (usually less than 30 minutes), while a stroke produces symptoms that last for at least 24 hours.
Some of the common symptoms of a TIA include sudden:
- Confusion
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- Dizziness or trouble walking
- Loss of balance or coordination.
Of the approximately 50,000 Americans who have a TIA each year, about 1 out of 3 will have an acute stroke within five years.
(Click TIA to learn more about this topic, including what causes it and how you can reduce your risk of a stroke if you have already had a TIA.)