Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Everyone’s health is unique, so if you have any concerns or questions about your health, it’s always best to consult with a qualified healthcare professional. We encourage you to seek expert guidance before making any medical decisions.
Persistent fatigue can become frustrating and confusing, especially when it seems to come without warning or apparent reason.
It’s natural to wonder why your body feels so drained when you’re doing all the proper things—eating well, staying active, and getting enough rest.
While it’s easy to blame age, stress, or even the weather, new research suggests a more serious and often overlooked culprit may exist.
The culprit? A mini-stroke. Medically known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA), it occurs when there’s a brief blockage of blood flow to the brain.
Unlike a full-blown stroke, the symptoms of a TIA usually resolve within 24 hours, often within minutes. But just because the symptoms disappear quickly doesn’t mean there’s no lasting impact.
Common symptoms of a TIA can include:
- Sudden muscle weakness or numbness (often on one side of the body)
- Temporary vision changes or loss
- Slurred speech or difficulty understanding others
- Sudden, severe headache
The problem? These symptoms can be subtle, fleeting, or mistaken for something else entirely—like fatigue, a migraine, or even just ‘feeling off’.
Studies show that only about 1 in 30 people who experience a TIA realise what’s happened.
A recent Danish study, published in Neurology, followed 354 people (average age 70) who had experienced a TIA. Researchers found that 61 per cent reported increased fatigue just two weeks after their mini-stroke.
Even more concerning, about half felt persistently tired three, six, and even twelve months later.
Why does this happen? After a TIA, the brain has to work harder to compensate for the temporary disruption in blood flow. This extra effort can sap your energy, leaving you feeling drained for months—or even longer.
Dr Boris Modrau, lead author of the study, explained: ‘People with a transient ischemic attack can have symptoms such as face drooping, arm weakness or slurred speech, and these resolve within a day.’
‘However, some have reported continued challenges including reduced quality of life, thinking problems, depression, anxiety and fatigue.’
Fatigue isn’t just about being sleepy. A persistent, overwhelming sense of tiredness or lack of energy doesn’t improve with rest.
It can affect one’s ability to concentrate, remember things, or even perform everyday tasks. For some, it can cause muscle aches, headaches, and mood changes.
The Danish study also found that people who experienced fatigue after a TIA were twice as likely to have a history of anxiety or depression, suggesting a complex interplay between physical and mental health.
One of the most concerning aspects of TIAs is how easily they can be missed. The symptoms are often mild and short-lived, and many people brush them off.
But even a ‘silent’ TIA can cause subtle brain damage, leading to ongoing issues like fatigue, memory problems, and difficulty with coordination.
In Australia, thousands of people experience TIAs each year, but many never receive a diagnosis or the follow-up care they need. This is especially important for older Australians, as the risk of both TIAs and full strokes increases with age.
If you experience any sudden neurological symptoms—even if they disappear quickly—it’s vital to seek medical attention immediately. TIAs are often a warning sign that a more serious stroke could be on the horizon.
Early intervention can help prevent further damage and improve your long-term health.
Constant fatigue isn’t just a regular part of getting older. If you’re feeling persistently tired, especially if you’ve had any sudden neurological symptoms in the past, it’s worth talking to your doctor.
Have you or someone you know experienced unexplained fatigue or a mini-stroke? How did you manage your recovery? Share your story in the comments below—your experience could help others in our community.
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