Transient Ischemic Attack (mini-stroke)

Overview

A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a temporary stroke that lasts only a few minutes and causes no lasting damage. It is also known as a "mini-stroke". An estimated 21000 Canadians suffer mini-strokes every year. A TIA is an important warning sign that you may be at risk of having a full ischemic stroke in the future. 

Symptoms

TIA symptoms which usually occur suddenly are similar to those of stroke but do not last as long. Most TIAs last less than five minutes. The average is about a minute. Symptoms can include:

  • numbness or weakness in the face arm or leg especially on one side of the body
  • confusion or difficulty in talking or understanding speech
  • trouble seeing in one or both eyes
  • difficulty with walking dizziness or loss of balance and coordination

Causes

A TIA occurs when a blood clot temporarily clogs an artery and part of the brain doesn't get the blood it needs.

Treatment

Because there is no way to tell whether symptoms are from a TIA or an acute stroke patients should assume that all stroke-like symptoms signal an emergency and should not wait to see if they go away. In the past doctors could not do much for people with stroke symptoms. This has changed and many patients with stroke symptoms now get blood thinners that can improve their outcome. Always get medical assistance even when symptoms go away.

A prompt evaluation (within 60 minutes) is necessary to identify the cause of the TIA and determine appropriate treatment. Depending on your medical history and the results of a physical examination your doctor may recommend drug therapy or surgery to reduce the risk of stroke in the future. The use of antiplatelet agents particularly low-dose daily aspirin is a standard treatment for patients at risk for stroke. People who have an irregular heartbeat may be prescribed anticoagulants.

Prevention

TIAs are often warning signs that a person is at risk for a more serious and debilitating stroke. About one-third of those who have a TIA will have an acute stroke some time in the future. Many strokes can be prevented by heeding 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 and 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 and exercising regularly may also help reduce your risk.

Additional Resources:

Undetected Mini-Strokes Threaten Thousands Warns Heart and Stroke Foundation