Faith Regional Health Services | living WELL | Spring 2018

Should you ever have symptoms that seem like a stroke, take them very seriously—even if they go away rather quickly. It could mean you’re having a transient ischemic attack (TIA), and a major stroke could be on the way. TIAs are warning strokes TIAs occur when circulation to the brain is briefly blocked by a clot. TIAs are known as warning strokes. Many people who have a TIA go on to have a full-blown stroke—often within days. But if you get help for a TIA, doctors can recommend treat- ments to reduce that risk—such as making healthy lifestyle changes, taking medicines or having surgery. A TIA and a stroke have the same signs and symptoms—the only differ- ence is how long they last. Remember: Even if your symptoms go away, you still need to be evaluated by a doctor. The goal is to help you avoid a future stroke, which can cause lasting brain damage. Since you don’t know which one you’re having, you should always call 911 right away if you suddenly have any of the following: A warning sign you should never ignore Transient ischemic attack Sources: American Heart Association; National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke; National Stroke Association Weakness or numbness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body. Severe headache with no known cause. Confusion or trouble talking or under- standing. Dizziness, loss of balance or trouble walking. Trouble seeing in one or both eyes. If you or someone you know shows signs of a stroke, call 911 immediately. Most symptoms of a TIA go away within an hour. But they can last for up to 24 hours. Only a doctor can determine if you’re having a TIA or a full-blown stroke, which is why you need emergency medical care if you’re having symptoms. Source: National Institutes of Health Fast fact FRHS.ORG 13