Mini-stroke, major health warning

Each year, about 500,000 Americans experience mini-strokes. More than one-third of those individuals will suffer a severe stroke in the future. Half the time, the subsequent major stroke takes place within a year, but it can occur as quickly as days or months after the mini-stroke.

A mini-stroke, also called a transient ischemic attack (TIA), lasts for only a few minutes. Its symptoms appear suddenly and usually disappear within one hour. Effects generally last no longer than 24 hours. As a result, mini-stroke sufferers may fail to realize what happened and not seek treatment. But a mini-stroke—which occurs when the blood supply to the brain is temporarily interrupted—signals that your body needs immediate medical attention. Prompt evaluation and treatment can help you avoid a major stroke.

Mini-stroke symptoms resemble those of a stroke but generally involve no brain damage.

Warning signs may include:

• weakness or numbness of the face, arm or leg, typically on one side of the body
• vision loss
• confusion or difficulty speaking or understanding
• dizziness or loss of coordination or balance
• sudden severe headache

Doctors believe mini-strokes occur when blood clots temporarily obstruct blood flow to the brain. Further research suggests some mini-strokes may be caused by brain artery spasms.

A medical exam within an hour of a mini-stroke helps doctors determine what caused the attack and outline treatment to help prevent a major stroke. Your doctor may prescribe medication to reduce blood clotting or recommend surgery to clear plaque from arteries.

Older individuals, African-Americans and people who have a strong family history of heart disease, stroke and diabetes are more susceptible to mini-stroke and stroke.

But you can decrease your chances of both by:

• eating a well-balanced diet
• exercising regularly
• keeping your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar within healthy limits
• losing excess pounds
• quitting smoking