DURING a stroke, every minute counts and by knowing the signs and symptoms, you can take quick action and perhaps even save a life. What are the four main symptoms of a mini-stroke?

Mini strokes are also known as a TIA meaning transient ischaemic attack. Similar to strokes, a TIA is caused by a blood clot blocking an artery leading to the brain.

The symptoms are the same as those of a stroke, and usually begin suddenly.

The difference is the symptoms only last for a few minutes or hours as the blockage is temporary.

According to the NHS, the four main early warning symptoms to watch out for

F stands for face - the face may have dropped on one side, the person may not be able to smile, or their mouth or eye may have drooped.

A is for arms - the person with suspected stroke may not be able to lift both arms and keep them there, because of arm weakness or numbness in one arm.

S is for speech - their speech may be slurred or garbled, or the person may not be able to talk at all, despite appearing to be awake.

T is for time - it’s time to dial 999 immediately if you notice any of these signs or symptoms.

As the acronym declares, if experiencing any of these symptoms, acting fast is integral.

About one in three people who have a transient ischemic attack will eventually have a stroke, with about half occurring within a year after the transient ischemic attack, said the Mayo Clinic.

Patients having a mini stroke return to normal within minutes or hours after the event.

This gives the false impression it may not be serious, and patients do not always seek medical attention.

However, it is very important if you or someone in your family experiences any of the above symptoms, they immediately visit their nearest emergency department.

Other potential symptoms of a stroke include:

Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty understanding speech
Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination
Sudden severe headache with no known cause.

READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE