Mild Stroke Symptoms

Mild stroke symptoms can be mistaken for a temporary problem, one that doesn't need treatment. But nothing could be further from the truth. Any sort of stroke requires immediate medical attention, because mild strokes could indicate that another stroke is coming. A patient also needs to be evaluated to determine the cause of the stroke symptoms. Time is of the essence, as the first three hours after a stroke are the optimal time for diagnosing and treating it. A mild stroke can cause permanent brain damage, so it should never be treated lightly. 

What Is a Mild Stroke?

A mild stroke may cause temporary symptoms associated with a stroke, then clear up just as quickly as it began. Even in this case, it should be taken as a severe warning that the person needs immediate medical attention. The victim of the stroke may deny the need for help; this is caused by confusion that results from a stroke. If there is a blood clot or bleeding in the brain, this must be treated as quickly as possible to prevent serious brain damage or death.

Symptoms of a Mild Stroke
A person having a mild stroke will have many of the same symptoms of a regular stroke, although the symptoms might resolve or seem to resolve by themselves over a matter of minutes. The symptoms include the following, as well as additional signs of a stroke in women:

  • Blurred vision
  • Confusion
  • Paralysis on one side of the body or in the face
  • Dizziness
  • Severe headache
  • Trouble communicating

Even if the symptoms are mild or disappear quickly, prompt medical attention is required. If you experience these symptoms, do not attempt to get to a hospital on your own. A larger stroke could quickly follow, leaving you unable to drive or walk to help.

Many of these symptoms can also occur following a concussion or a minor head trauma. This should be treated with the same urgency as a stroke, as it could be an indication of hemorrhaging or a blood clot in the brain.

Recuperation and Prevention
If there is lasting damage from a mild stroke, regular rehabilitative therapy may help restore physical functioning. It may take time, but the prognosis is good.

Preventing future strokes is important, because someone who has had a mild stroke has an increased risk of future strokes. Controlling blood pressure, cholesterol levels and weight, avoiding alcohol, illegal drugs and cigarettes; quitting smoking and taking a blood thinner can aid in preventing of future strokes. 

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