About Transient Ischemic Attack
Symptoms of Transient Ischemic Attack
Causes of Transient Ischemic Attack
Risk Factors of Transient Ischemic Attack
Diagnosing Transient Ischemic Attack
Treating Transient Ischemic Attack
About Transient Ischemic Attack
A Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) is a temporary interruption of blood flow to the brain. TIA happens to be a type of stroke caused by a temporary lack of oxygen to the brain.
Symptoms of Transient Ischemic Attack
Symptoms, which usually last for a few minutes to a few hours, are similar to those of a stroke, but there is no permanent brain injury. The symptoms don’t typically cause permanent damage. These symptoms of TIA can include
- Sudden weakness
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Vision changes
- Difficulty in speaking & understanding
- Temporary confusion
- Slurred speech
- Weakening/numbing of the face/arm(s)/leg(s)
- Problem seeing with either one eye or both eyes
Causes of Transient Ischemic Attack
The exact cause of TIAs is unknown, but the leading cause is clogged or narrowed arteries due to high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes. Other possible causes of a TIA typically involve the ones given below:
- A blood clot from the heart that travels to the brain, drug use, and a head or neck injury
- A blockage of an artery leading to the brain, usually due to a blood clot
Risk Factors of Transient Ischemic Attack
High cholesterol and hypertension are both risk factors for TIA. Other risk factors may include diabetes, smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, and family history of stroke or other TIA.
Diagnosing Transient Ischemic Attack
Diagnosis of a TIA can involve a complete medical history, physical exam, laboratory tests, blood tests, X-rays, imaging tests, and also vascular testing. Imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI can help identify blockages in the arteries leading to the brain. Vascular testing, such as an ultrasound or CT angiogram, can help the doctor visualize the blood flow in the neck and brain.
Treating Transient Ischemic Attack
Treatments for TIA can vary depending on the cause and severity of the event. Treatment may include the ones given underneath:
- Medications such as clot-dissolving drugs or anticoagulants
- Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and increasing physical activity
- Unfortunately, in some of the highly critical cases, even surgery is recommended sometimes to repair damage from the TIA
Visit Doctor Arun Today!
It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of a TIA and seek medical attention right away. With prompt and appropriate treatment, the risk of having a stroke can be greatly reduced. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if you or someone you know experiences signs and symptoms of a TIA. Treatment could potentially reduce the chances of having a full stroke. Treatment focuses on reducing the risk of stroke and may include taking medications and making lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and quitting smoking. Surgery may also be recommended depending on the patient’s condition. To get the best advice specific to your case, you can immediately meet Dr Arun, who is a specialist in this domain, and can guide you towards the best possible treatment options in your specific case.
