Which neurological condition is not typically a stroke mimic?

Asthma is not typically considered a stroke mimic because it is primarily a respiratory condition that affects the airways and does not directly impact the neurological system in a way that would simulate the signs and symptoms of a stroke. While a severe asthma attack can lead to hypoxia, which may result in confusion or altered mental status, these symptoms are not indicative of a neurological event like a stroke.

In contrast, the other conditions—migraines, tumors, and temporal arteritis—can present with neurological symptoms such as headaches, focal neurological deficits, or changes in consciousness that closely resemble those seen in a stroke. For example, migraines can cause significant neurological symptoms including aura, which can mimic a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke. Tumors can lead to increased intracranial pressure and focal neurological deficits, while temporal arteritis can cause headache and visual disturbances, which may also be confused with stroke presentations. Thus, asthma stands apart from these other conditions in the context of neurological evaluation for stroke.