A TIA (transient ischemic attack) is an early warning that a stroke (also called a brain attack) is coming. A TIA is a temporary stroke. It causes no lasting damage. But the effects of a stroke, if it happens, can be very serious and lasting. If you think you are having symptoms of a TIA or stroke—even if they don’t last—get medical help right away.
Symptoms of TIA and stroke
Symptoms may come on suddenly and last for a few seconds or a few hours. You may have symptoms only once. Or they may come and go for days. If you notice any of the following symptoms, don’t wait. Call 911 or emergency services right away.
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Weakness, numbness, tingling, or loss of feeling in your face, arm, or leg
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Trouble seeing in one or both eyes; double vision
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Slurred speech, trouble talking, or problems understanding others when they speak
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Sudden, severe headache
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Dizziness or a feeling of spinning
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Loss of balance or falling
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Blackouts
B.E. F.A.S.T. Reminder for Stroke Signs
B.E.F.A.S.T. is an easy way to remember the warning signs of a stroke, and what to do if someone near you is experiencing them.
B.E. F.A.S.T. Stands for…
B – Balance
Is there a sudden difficulty with balance or coordination? Is walking or sitting difficult?
E – Eyes
Is there a sudden change in eyesight such as blurred vision, double vision, or a loss of vision in one or both eyes without pain?
F – Face
Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile.
A – Arm
Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
S – Speech
Is speech slurred or difficult to understand? Are they unable to speak at all? Ask the person to repeat is simple sentence like “It is a bright and sunny day.”
T – Time to call 911!
If a person shows any of these symptoms, even if they go away, call 911 to get them to the hospital immediately. Time is very important. The sooner they get to the hospital, the more likely they are to receive stroke reversing and potentially life-saving treatment.