Turning 40 marks a significant phase in health, particularly for heart and brain function. One critical condition to be aware of is a mini stroke, medically known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA). While a TIA doesn’t cause permanent brain damage, it’s a serious warning that a full stroke may be imminent—often occurring within weeks or months of the initial event.

A TIA is caused by a temporary blockage in blood flow to the brain, often from a small clot or narrowed artery. Symptoms mimic those of a stroke—numbness, slurred speech, blurred vision, dizziness—but typically resolve within minutes to hours. Despite the lack of lasting damage, about 1 in 3 people who experience a TIA will later have a full stroke.

Once you reach your 40s, several factors raise your risk for TIA. These include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, smoking, stress, poor sleep, and irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation). Even if you feel healthy, these silent conditions can significantly increase your risk, making preventive awareness critical.

Symptoms of a TIA may include sudden numbness or weakness (especially on one side), difficulty speaking or understanding speech, vision problems, dizziness, or an intense headache. These symptoms may vanish quickly, but you should still treat them as a medical emergency. Immediate care can prevent long-term damage or a future stroke.

Diagnosis after a TIA often involves brain imaging, heart monitoring, and blood tests to identify underlying causes. Depending on results, your doctor may prescribe blood thinners, cholesterol medication, or treatments for blood pressure and diabetes. Lifestyle changes like diet, exercise, quitting smoking, and stress management are essential.

Ultimately, your 40s are the perfect time to take control of your health. Recognizing and responding to a TIA can prevent more severe outcomes—and keep your brain healthy for decades to come.