The Signs of Mini Stroke
The signs of mini strokes are similar to full strokes, though the damage they do is not usually permanent. Immediate medical attention is still crucial, however, to prevent further strokes and longterm complications. Mini stroke symptoms can be slightly more subtle than major strokes. It is important to be hyper-aware of the signs in order to get medical attention required. The signs are as follows:
1. Weakness or Numbness
A sudden onset of weakness or numbness in the face, arms, or legs is one of the primary signs of mini stroke. This weakness or numbness often only affects one side of the body. It can last for a few minutes or up to 24 hours. The key here is that it is a symptom that seems to come on quite suddenly. One minute everything is fine, and the next the leg is weak and it is hard to walk, or it is challenging to lift the arm, etc.
2. Difficulty Understanding or Speaking
Confusion is not ‘just a part of getting older’. If an elderly person is having difficulty understanding what others are saying or speaking themselves, it could be a sign of a mini stroke. This could manifest as slurred speech or as an inability to articulate words clearly. Again, the changes are often quite sudden. Caregivers should pay close attention to any seemingly out-of-the-blue changes in the individuals speech patterns.
3. Sudden Vision Changes
Loss of vision is an unfortunate part of aging for many people. That being said, these changes in vision are usually gradual and happen slowly over time. In the case of abrupt onset of blindness or vision changes in either one or both eyes, this could be a sign of a mini stroke. With mini strokes, these vision changes usually occur suddenly and may last for a few minutes. Any unexplained visual disturbances should prompt immediate medical attention.
4. Dizziness and Coordination Problems
Many elderly individuals, unfortunately, lack stability and coordination. While sometimes it is due to medical conditions or other external events, often it can be simply attributed to a lack of activity and exercise throughout their lives. That being said, a sudden onset of dizziness, balance issues, or coordination problems should not simply be chalked up to old age. These symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine if it is a mini stroke or something else.
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