Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) – a warning stroke, or “mini-stroke” that produces symptoms similar to those seen in a stroke with minimal lasting damage.

Causes:

  • Temporary blockage of an artery

Symptoms

  • Sudden numbness or weakness
  • Confusion
  • Trouble seeing
  • Inability to walk
  • Loss of coordination
  • Severe headache with no known cause

Diagnosis:

  • Electrocardiogram
  • Holter Monitor (24 hour electrocardiogram)
  • Carotid Ultrasound
  • Echocardiogram
  • CT scan of brain
  • MRI scan of brain

Treatment Options:

  • Dietary Change – Mediterranean, low fat, low carbohydrate
  • Aerobic Exercise
  • Medication to lower and prevent high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and blood clots
  • Carotid Stenting
  • Carotid Endarterectomy (surgery to clean plaque from the carotid artery)

Importance: Approximately one third of people who have a TIA will experience a stoke, in most cases sometime in the next year. A TIA often does not result in permanent damage, but a stroke can cause lasting effects.