1. Sudden Weakness or Numbness
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Often affects one side of the body, such as the face, arm, or leg.
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The weakness can feel like heaviness or loss of coordination.
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Even if it goes away quickly, it’s a warning sign.
2. Sudden Trouble Speaking or Understanding Speech
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Slurred speech or difficulty forming words.
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Trouble comprehending what others are saying.
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May also include sudden confusion.
3. Sudden Vision Problems
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Blurred, double, or blackened vision in one or both eyes.
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Loss of part of the visual field.
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These vision changes are often temporary but serious.
4. Sudden Dizziness, Loss of Balance, or Coordination
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Trouble walking, unsteady gait, or feeling like the room is spinning.
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Difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning a shirt.
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Even short episodes can indicate reduced blood flow to the brain.
5. Sudden Severe Headache
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A sudden, intense headache with no known cause.
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May occur with other symptoms like dizziness or vision changes.
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Less common than other symptoms, but still a red flag.
💡 Important Note:
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Time is critical. Even if symptoms resolve in minutes, call emergency services immediately (911 in the U.S.). A TIA is often a warning sign for a future stroke, which can be life-threatening.
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Seniors with high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, or previous strokes are at higher risk.
If you want, I can also make a quick “FAST” checklist specifically tailored for seniors so you can spot TIAs at home fast. This is something every caregiver should know. Do you want me to make that?