What is a TIA (ministroke)?

A transient ischemic attack (TIA) -- also called a "ministroke" -- is a brief episode of stroke symptoms. Unlike an actual stroke, a TIA doesn't result in serious brain damage and the symptoms clear up completely. The official definition of a TIA is an episode of stroke symptoms that disappear within 24 hours, but most last for less than ten minutes.

If your family member is at risk for a stroke, it's important to watch out for the symptoms of a stroke or TIA. Although it may be tempting to ignore a TIA once the symptoms disappear, the attack is a warning sign that a full-blown stroke may be on the horizon. In fact, one out of three people who experience a TIA will go on to have an actual stroke.