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.