If you think you're having a stroke, don't ignore the warning signs. A new study says one in eight is preceded by a warning stroke.

Researchers studied more than 16,000 stroke victims. More than 2,000 of them had a mini-stroke that landed them in hospital. The study also found that those who did not have a "warning stroke" were more likely to have a more serious stroke. Researchers think their blood vessels were used to a lack of blood flow, which protected them from the full result of the larger stroke.

"If as a patient you're having warning signs of a stroke, which are half your body going numb, half your body going weak or trouble talking, you should seek immediate medical attention in an emergency room because the study also found that risk factor modification will reduce your risk of stroke," Dr. Rishi Gupta with the Cleveland Clinic said.

Doctors say any stroke symptoms are not to be taken lightly, but there are some things you can do to decrease your risk. They say keeping an eye on your blood pressure and cholesterol is important and taking an aspirin a day can also help reduce the risk. But of course, it's best to talk with your doctor about your risk.