Transient ischemic << ihs KEE mihk >> attack (TIA) is a sudden loss of brain function similar to a stroke. TIA’s are sometimes called mini-strokes. Symptoms of TIA come on suddenly. They may include numbness in the face or limbs, often on one side of the body; loss of strength in a limb; confusion; or trouble speaking or understanding. They may also include difficulty walking, dizziness, and loss of balance or coordination; trouble seeing in one or both eyes; and severe headache. The symptoms depend on the area of the brain affected. Unlike a stroke, a TIA is temporary. Symptoms usually last only a few minutes. There is often no lasting harm to the brain. However, about one-third of TIA sufferers will eventually suffer a stroke unless treated.
Causes.
TIA’s are caused by a blood clot. The clot briefly blocks the flow of blood to the brain. This blockage interrupts the brain’s supply of oxygen and nutrients. The blood clot can be caused by many underlying factors. They include hypertension(high blood pressure), atrial fibrillation (a type of irregular, abnormally rapid heartbeat), and carotid artery disease (narrowing of the arteries in the neck due to fatty deposits). Other causes include diabetes, high levels of cholesterol in the blood, and cigarette smoking.
Treatment
for TIA depends on the cause of the blockage. A doctor may prescribe medications to help control hypertension and diabetes, lower cholesterol, and prevent atrial fibrillation. If carotid artery disease is a cause, doctors may use surgery to open the carotid artery and improve blood flow. Aspirin or other drugs that prevent blood clots can help reduce the risk of future stroke or TIA. Doctors may also recommend lifestyle changes that will help lower the risk of future TIA or stroke. These include stopping smoking, eating a healthy diet, reducing salt in the diet, losing weight, exercising regularly, avoiding illegal drugs, and limiting alcohol consumption.
See also Stroke.
