
Stroke vs. Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) Symptoms and Signs
Stroke or "brain attack" is similar to a heart attack, except that it only occurs in the brain. A transient ischemic attack (TIA, mini-stroke) is a type of stroke, but in a mini-stroke, the blood supply to the brain usually is restored, and sign and symptoms go away within minutes. However, it may take up to 24 hours for symptoms of a TIA to go away. A stoke causes permanent damage to the brain, while a TIA does not.
The warning signs and symptoms of a stroke and TIA are the same, but specific symptoms and signs depend upon the area of the brain affected. Common warning signs and symptoms of a stroke and mini-stroke are difficulty speaking, dizziness, coordination or vision problems, and weakness in the muscles of the face, or arm or leg on one or both sides.