Diagnosing the stroke patient is usually done according to symtomatology. Those cases in which there is a doubt, a CT scan or an arteriograph may be required before the diagnosis is definitive. There can be very minor strokes and may not be apparent to the patient at the time of occurrence. The patient can undergo several such attacks lasting 2-3 minutes or up to 30 minutes, on a daily basis, or have just a few over several years. At times a TIA can occur shortly before a complete stroke.
Prevention of strokes is of course paramount in a healthy lifestyle.
Stop smoking and your risk of having a stroke drops almost immediately. The damage caused by smoking can be corrected in about 5 to 7 years. Drink alcohol in moderation. No more than 2 drinks daily. Reduce your salts.