Information From Your Health Care Provider

TRANSIENT ISCHEMIC ATTACK (TIA)

Basic information

description

A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a temporary loss of blood supply (ischemia) to a part of the brain causing a brief decrease in brain function. A TIA is sometimes called a "mini stroke." TIAs usually affect adults over age 40 and men more than women. They are a high risk factor for a future stroke.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Most attacks last less than an hour and some may last only for minutes. Symptoms are similar to those of a stroke. After the attack, normal function returns.
Loss of muscle function on one side of the body.
Sudden onset of headache or dizziness.
Tingling in the arms and legs.
Numbness.
Vision disturbance or temporary blindness in one eye.
Confusion.
Faintness without loss of consciousness.
Slurred speech or inability to speak.

causes

A temporary loss of blood supply (and oxygen) to a part of the the brain. It can be due to a blood clot, partially blocked blood vessel, or other less common causes.

risk increases with

Aging; males; and African Americans.
Personal or family history of high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, stroke, or blood clotting disorders.
Diabetes, heart disease, carotid artery disease, peripheral artery disease, or migraine.
High cholesterol levels or high homocysteine levels.
Obesity.
Smoking or excess alcohol use.
Sedentary lifestyle (being physically inactive).

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Reduce your risks where possible.
Get medical care for treatable risk factors. Exercise daily. Maintain a healthy weight. Eat a healthy diet.
Don't smoke. Avoid excess alcohol use.
Have your blood pressure checked regularly. If it is high, get medical advice for treatment to reduce it.
Preventive drug therapy.

expected outcomes

There are normally no lasting effects (such as weakness on one side) from a TIA. Treatment of TIAs can help reduce your risk for stroke.
TIAs can recur. Symptoms of each attack may be similar or different from others.

possible complications

Stroke. After a TIA, more than one-third of the persons will have a stroke (about half will occur within a year).

diagnosis & treatment

general measures

If symptoms occur, call 911 for emergency care. Do not ignore symptoms even if they are short-lived. Stroke and TIA symptoms are alike.
Emergency care will include a physical exam and questions about your symptoms and activities. Medical tests may include studies to check your heart, brain, and blood vessel function.
Hospital care may be needed for a short time.
Treatment may include drugs, taking control of risk factors (diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and others), and lifestyle changes. A treatment plan will be based on your individual case.
Stop smoking. Get counseling, join a support group, or find a method to help you quit. Limit alcohol use.
Surgery (endarterectomy) may be needed to remove plaques (fatty deposits) from carotid arteries in the neck. Heart valve replacement surgery may be needed.
To learn more: American Stroke Association, 7272 Greenville Ave., Dallas, TX 75231; (888) 478-7653; website: www.strokeassociation.org.

medications

To prevent future TIAs or strokes, you may be prescribed anticoagulants, antiplatelets, aspirin, statin drugs, antihypertensives, or other drugs.
Drugs for an underlying disorder may be prescribed.

activity

Routine exercise is helpful. Follow your heath care provider's advice. Try to get 30 to 60 minutes of exercise (e.g., walking) each day for most days of the week.

diet

Eat a well-balanced diet that is low in salt and fat. Include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, and fiber.
A weight-loss diet is recommended if overweight is a problem.

notify our office if

You or a family member has or did have symptoms of a TIA. Seek emergency help.
Symptoms recur or new ones occur during treatment.