Mini-stroke vs. regular stroke: What's the difference?

How is a "mini-stroke" different from a regular stroke?

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Answer

A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or severely reduced. This deprives part of the brain of oxygen and nutrients, which can destroy brain cells and result in some degree of permanent disability. Stroke symptoms may include trouble walking and speaking, as well as paralysis or numbness on one side of the body. Prompt treatment is essential. The longer a stroke goes untreated, the greater the risk of permanent disability.

The term "mini-stroke" is a misnomer that typically refers to a transient ischemic attack (TIA) — a temporary interruption of blood flow to part of the brain. The symptoms of a TIA are similar to those of a stroke but resolve quickly — within several minutes to several hours. A TIA doesn't destroy brain cells or cause permanent disability. However, TIAs may recur. Each TIA increases the risk of a subsequent stroke.

If you suspect that you've had a TIA, seek immediate medical attention. You may need various diagnostic tests — such as a computerized tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan — to determine what caused the TIA. Depending on the underlying cause, you may need medication to prevent blood clots or a procedure to remove fatty deposits from the arteries that supply blood to your brain.

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