A temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain, known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA), can cause a range of unsettling symptoms, including slurred speech or arm weakness. The symptoms appear suddenly but usually last less than five minutes, which is why TIAs are often ignored or missed.

Although TIAs are often referred to as “ministrokes,” the term “warning stroke” is actually more accurate. A TIA can be a harbinger of a future stroke, which has similar symptoms (see “Spot a stroke”) but can leave you permanently disabled.