Which symptom may indicate a Transient Ischemic Attack?

A Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), often referred to as a mini-stroke, is characterized by sudden neurological symptoms that last for a short duration, typically less than 24 hours. One of the hallmark symptoms of a TIA is paralysis or weakness on one side of the body, which can occur because of temporary interruption of blood flow to specific areas of the brain. This symptom indicates that there is a transient reduction in brain function due to lack of oxygen and nutrients, often resulting in motor impairment on one side.

In contrast, extreme fatigue is more ambiguous and can be indicative of various other health issues but is not a primary symptom specifically associated with TIAs. A persistent cough could point to respiratory issues, and stomach pain generally relates to gastrointestinal problems, neither of which directly correlate to the neurological deficits seen in a TIA. Hence, paralysis of one side of the body most accurately reflects the transient neurological symptoms that are characteristic of a TIA.