A mini stroke—medically known as a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)—is a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain. While symptoms usually resolve within minutes to hours (and leave no permanent damage), a TIA is a major warning sign: about 1 in 3 people who have a TIA will go on to have a full-blown stroke, often within days or weeks.
For seniors, recognizing these subtle signs early can be life-saving. Never ignore them—even if they “go away.”
⚠️ The 5 Key Symptoms (Remember: “Time Lost Is Brain Lost”)
Use the BE-FAST acronym to spot a TIA or stroke:
B – Balance Loss
- Sudden dizziness, vertigo, or trouble walking
- Feeling unsteady or like the room is spinning
- Often mistaken for “just aging” or inner ear issues—but when sudden, it’s a red flag
E – Eyes (Vision Changes)
- Sudden blurred, double, or loss of vision in one or both eyes
- A “curtain” or shadow over part of your sight
- Painless and temporary—but urgent
F – Face Drooping
- One side of the face droops or feels numb
- Smile appears uneven
- Ask the person to smile—if it’s lopsided, act fast
A – Arm (or Leg) Weakness
