Common TIA Symptoms to Watch For

Symptoms may last a few minutes or up to a couple of hours and include:

Sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side

Slurred speech or difficulty understanding others

Blurred or double vision

Dizziness, loss of balance, or unsteady walking

A sudden severe headache (less common)

Important: These symptoms may disappear quickly, but that doesn’t mean you’re safe. If you or someone around you experiences them, call emergency services immediately.

Getting Diagnosed After a TIA

If you’re over 40 and experience symptoms—even if they go away—you’ll likely undergo:

MRI or CT scan to check for signs of a stroke

Blood tests to evaluate cholesterol, glucose, and clotting

Heart tests (ECG or Holter monitor) to check for arrhythmias

Carotid ultrasound to look for artery narrowing

How to Prevent a Stroke After a TIA

Your 40s are a perfect time to pivot toward prevention. After a TIA, your doctor may recommend:

Aspirin or other blood thinners

Statins for cholesterol

Blood pressure control

Diabetes management

Lifestyle Changes

Adopt a heart-healthy diet (e.g., Mediterranean or DASH)