Mini-Strokes: A Warning for Your Health!
A mini-stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) can be a wakeup call to address serious medical issues that may significantly impact your future health. Here are some answers to questions you may have about TIAs.
What is a transient ischemic attack (TIA)?
Transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) are a type of stroke. It is caused by a temporary blockage in the blood supply to a part of the brain. But in contrast to a stroke, symptoms get better within a short amount of time when the blockage goes away. Therefore, TIAs are often called “mini-strokes.”
What are symptoms of a TIA?
Symptoms of a transient ischemic attack are like those of a stroke. However, the symptoms only last for a few minutes or longer. They can happen suddenly and include:
- Numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
- Trouble seeing in one or both eyes, or double vision
- Difficulty talking or understanding speech
- Loss of balance and coordination
Because the symptoms are like those of a stroke, it is very important for you to get emergency treatment right away, even if the symptoms go away within a few minutes. A healthcare professional can determine if you are having a stroke or TIA and how to treat it.
What are the risk factors for a TIA?
Although a TIA can happen to anyone, they are more likely in older adults, men, and black and Hispanic individuals. The risk factors are similar to those for stroke and include conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes. Other risks include heavy alcohol use, cigarette smoking, and drug abuse.
How are TIAs treated?
A TIA generally does not require treatment as the blockage breaks up and dissolves on its own. However, the health conditions and risk factors that allow TIAs to happen are also a warning sign that a stroke may be possible. Nearly 1 in 5 people that have a TIA go on to have a stroke within 90 days.
Strokes are a very serious medical condition, so it is important that people who have had a mini-stroke see a doctor. Carefully follow their recommendations to treat any health concerns. Stroke prevention may include starting an exercise routine, eating healthy and trying to lose weight, quitting smoking, and managing high blood pressure or diabetes. Your doctor may prescribe medications to control certain health conditions and may also recommend aspirin or other blood thinner medications to prevent blood clots from forming.
Summary
Transient ischemic attacks are a sign that you need to address certain medical and lifestyle issues to prevent a stroke. Just because the symptoms may go away in a few minutes, they should not be ignored. Be sure to see your doctor right away if you have one or more indications of a TIA or stroke.