If someone experiences any of the above symptoms for even the briefest amount of time, call 911 immediately.
Even if you suspect the symptoms are caused by a TIA rather than a stroke, don't wait to see whether the symptoms go away. If it's a stroke, the person needs emergency medical care right away. If it's a TIA, the doctor needs to evaluate her, treat the cause of the TIA, and then set up a plan to prevent a future stroke.
Your family member or friend may not want to seek treatment for a TIA, especially if the symptoms disappeared quickly. She may brush it off as aches and pains, hunger, fatigue, or just old age. But even if she's very persuasive, don't let her talk you out of seeking medical attention.
If she didn't tell you about the TIA right away or managed to persuade you not to call 911, it's not too late. Call the doctor as soon as possible to make sure your family member gets the treatment she needs.
