Often referred to as a “mini stroke,” a transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a type of stroke that lasts only a few minutes. It occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is briefly interrupted. Because the blood supply is restored quickly, the affected brain tissue does not die as it does in an acute stroke. However, TIAs are often warning signs that a person is at risk for a more serious and debilitating stroke. It’s a medical emergency that requires urgent evaluation and treatment.
Symptoms of TIA
Most symptoms of a TIA disappear within an hour, although they may persist for up to 24 hours. Symptoms can include:
· Numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
· Trouble seeing in one or both eyes
· Difficulty with walking, dizziness
· Confusion or difficulty in talking or understanding speech
· Loss of balance and coordination
Because there’s no way to tell whether symptoms are from a TIA or an acute stroke, you should assume that all stroke-like symptoms signal an emergency and should not wait to see if they go away. It’s important to call 9-1-1 immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.
A prompt evaluation (within 60 minutes) is necessary to identify the cause of the TIA and determine next steps. Depending on your medical history and the results of a medical examination, the doctor may recommend drug therapy or surgery to reduce the risk of stroke in people who have had a TIA.
The use of antiplatelet agents, particularly aspirin, is a standard treatment for people at risk for stroke. Individuals with atrial fibrillation (irregular beating of the heart) may be prescribed anticoagulants.
Risk factors for TIA
About one-third of those who have a TIA will have an acute stroke sometime in the future. Many strokes can be prevented by paying attention to the warning signs of TIAs and treating underlying risk factors. The most important treatable factors linked to TIAs and stroke are:
· High blood pressure
· Cigarette smoking
· Heart disease
· Carotid artery disease
· Diabetes
· Heavy use of alcohol
Medical help is available to reduce and eliminate these factors. Lifestyle changes such as eating a balanced diet, maintaining healthy weight, exercising, and enrolling in smoking and alcohol cessation programs can also reduce these factors.
If you’ve been diagnosed as having experienced a TIA, and have been referred to Stony Brook for treatment, we now offer the first and only Rapid Access TIA Clinic in Suffolk County. With a referral by your physician or provider, you can receive and evaluation for TIA and treatment all in the same day at our Commack location.