Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIA)
Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIA): Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Urgent Care
A transient ischemic attack (TIA), often called a “mini-stroke,” is a temporary disruption in blood flow to the brain, causing stroke-like symptoms that resolve within 24 hours. While TIAs do not cause permanent damage, they signal a high risk of future stroke and require immediate medical attention.
Symptoms of TIA
Symptoms are sudden and identical to stroke symptoms, lasting minutes to hours:
- FAST Signs:
- Face: Drooping on one side, inability to smile, or uneven mouth/eye.
- Arms: Weakness, numbness, or inability to lift one arm.
- Speech: Slurred speech, garbled words, or difficulty understanding others.
- Time: Seek emergency care immediately if these occur.
- Other Symptoms:
- Vision changes: Blindness, double vision, or blurred vision.
- Dizziness, vertigo, or loss of balance.
- Confusion, nausea, or severe headache.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Causes:
- Temporary blockage: A blood clot or plaque fragment briefly obstructs a cerebral artery.
- Underlying Conditions: Atherosclerosis, atrial fibrillation, or vasculitis.
- Risk Factors:
- Age: Risk doubles every decade after age 55.
- Hypertension, diabetes, smoking, or high cholesterol.
- Previous stroke or TIA.
Diagnosis
- Emergency Evaluation:
- FAST assessment by paramedics or ER staff.
- Imaging:
- CT/MRI scans to rule out stroke and identify blockages.
- Angiography to check blood vessel narrowing.
- Blood Tests: Glucose, cholesterol, and clotting factors.
- Specialist Referral:
- Neurologist for follow-up to assess stroke risk.
Treatment and Management
- Immediate Care:
- Emergency imaging within 1 hour of symptom onset.
- Antiplatelet/anticoagulants: Aspirin or warfarin to prevent clotting.
- Long-Term Prevention:
- Blood pressure control: ACE inhibitors or diuretics.
- Statins: To reduce plaque buildup.
- Lifestyle changes: Smoking cessation, diet, and exercise.
- Surgical Interventions:
- Carotid endarterectomy: Removes plaque from neck arteries.
Why TIAs Are Critical
- Stroke Risk: ~1 in 5 people with a TIA will have a stroke within 90 days.
- Misdiagnosis: Symptoms may resolve before hospital arrival, but imaging is still required to confirm TIA vs. stroke.
Conclusion
TIAs are medical emergencies requiring urgent evaluation. The FAST acronym simplifies symptom recognition, and prompt care can prevent a full-blown stroke.
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At DrStemCellsThailand (DRSCT)‘s Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine Center of Thailand, we emphasize comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans of Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for managing various health conditions. If you have questions about Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIA) or would like more information on our services, consult with our experts today!
