⚠️ Hidden Stroke: Signs You May Have Had One Without Knowing
Many people suffer a “mini-stroke” — known as a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) — without even realizing it. While symptoms such as facial drooping, weak arms, or slurred speech may fade within 24 hours, new research suggests that the lingering effects can last for months, even up to a year.
🧠 What is a TIA?
A TIA happens when blood flow to the brain is briefly blocked. Unlike a full stroke, the blockage clears on its own, and symptoms usually disappear quickly. But that doesn’t mean it’s harmless — it’s often a warning sign of a future, more severe stroke.
😴 The Hidden Symptom: Long-Lasting Fatigue
A recent study published in Neurology followed 354 patients (average age 70) who had experienced a TIA. Researchers found:
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61% reported significant fatigue within two weeks after discharge.
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Fatigue levels stayed high — over 50% — even 12 months later.
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Fatigue wasn’t explained by brain scans or blood clots.
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Patients with a history of anxiety or depression were twice as likely to experience ongoing fatigue.
👉 This shows that while the body may recover quickly, the brain and mental health may take much longer.
🔍 Why It Matters
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Persistent fatigue after TIA is often overlooked.
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It can reduce motivation, limit physical activity, and impair cognitive function.
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Most importantly, a TIA is a red flag: people who experience one are at higher risk of a future, major stroke.
✅ What You Should Do
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Pay attention to lingering fatigue, especially if it continues weeks after a suspected TIA.
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Monitor your mental health: anxiety and depression increase the risk of long-term symptoms.
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Seek medical follow-up: early intervention and rehabilitation can reduce future risks.
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Adopt prevention strategies: manage blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol; quit smoking; and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
⚠️ Key takeaway: Fatigue that lingers for weeks or months may not just be “normal tiredness” — it could be your body signaling a past mini-stroke. Recognizing it early can save lives.
HealthDaily
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