Which condition is referred to as a "mini stroke"?

A "mini stroke" refers to a transient ischemic attack (TIA). This condition is characterized by a temporary period of symptoms similar to those of a stroke, which occur when there is a temporary reduction of blood flow to the brain. Although TIAs do not cause permanent damage, they serve as a warning sign of a possible future stroke. The key characteristic of a TIA is that the symptoms resolve within a short period, typically less than 24 hours, often within minutes to a couple of hours. Recognizing a TIA is crucial because it allows for early intervention to prevent a more severe stroke from occurring later on.

In contrast, other options like a myocardial infarction, or heart attack, involve the heart and are not related to temporary neurological symptoms. A stroke results in permanent neurological damage due to prolonged interruption of blood flow, while a head injury refers to trauma to the skull or brain, which does not fit the description of a "mini stroke." Thus, the transient ischemic attack is specifically linked to the term "mini stroke" due to its temporary nature and similar symptoms to a stroke.