Stroke Awareness: Facts and Tips

A transient ischemic attack, or TIA, is a serious warning sign of an impending stroke. The symptoms of a TIA are the same as stroke symptoms but last less than 24 hours before disappearing and generally do not cause permanent damage. A TIA is the result of temporary blockage of blood supply to the brain. The National Stroke Association warns that up to 40 percent of all individuals who have a TIA will suffer a stroke and nearly half of all strokes occur within 2 days after a TIA.

A cerebrovascular accident, or CVA, is a synonymous term for a stroke. A CVA is a medical emergency that demands immediate medical attention. Other nervous system disorders that can mimic a stroke include a brain tumor, a subdural hematoma, a brain abscess or viral encephalitis, which is an infection of the brain.