You can schedule an appointment with our neurology team by calling 617-207-6143 or by submitting a request through our secure online form. We're here to support you every step of the way.
A transient ischemic attack (TIA) occurs when there is a temporary loss of blood flow to the brain. TIAs, like strokes, can have various underlying causes.
A transient ischemic attack is the medical name for a condition that is often called a "mini-stroke." A TIA starts like a stroke—with a blockage of blood flow to the brain—but resolves on its own, usually within a few minutes. Transient ischemic attacks often don't cause lasting damage, but they are a warning that you are susceptible to a stroke. Roughly 15% of all strokes are preceded by transient ischemic attacks.
"Mini-stroke" is an older, descriptive term for a transient ischemic attack. There's no medical difference between the two terms.
Symptoms of TIA resemble stroke symptoms. During a TIA, you may experience:
Because there isn't much difference between symptoms of TIA and symptoms of a stroke, there's no way to tell in the moment which one you're having. It's crucial to get treatment immediately in the event of a TIA. A neurologist can determine what caused the transient ischemic attack and evaluate your risk of a stroke in the future.
You should not experience long-term effects after a TIA. However, if you continue to experience symptoms, it's important to see your doctor for evaluation.
A transient ischemic attack is a serious medical issue. You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience one.
Unfortunately, studies show that more than a third of people who suffer a TIA don't get immediate care because it "doesn't feel like an emergency."
Transient ischemic attacks occur suddenly and without warning. It's more accurate to think of TIAs as a warning themselves. Your short-term risk of stroke rises dramatically after a TIA.
Mini-stroke causes are the same as the causes of full strokes. In both cases, something stops blood from reaching your brain. Usually, the cause is plaque, a fatty deposit that builds up and eventually creates a temporary blockage preventing blood flow, a condition called atherosclerosis.
Transient ischemic attacks are more common among people:
Some studies have shown a relationship between stress, negative emotions (such as depression or hostility), and risk of TIA or stroke. Further research is needed to understand the exact causal relationship.
Immediate treatment for a TIA focuses on identifying the source of the problem. Your doctors may perform tests such as brain imaging (CT or MRI scans), imaging of the blood vessels in your head and neck, and imaging of your heart to determine the cause of your TIA.
Because risk of a stroke is high after a TIA, doctors may prescribe medications to reduce your risk of stroke, depending on your risk level and what they find during your physical examination and scans. Possible TIA treatments to reduce future risk include:
The primary mechanism is the same in TIA vs stroke: blocked blood flow to the brain. The main differences are the duration of the event and the potential for long-term damage:
By definition, transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) are brief. Most transient ischemic attacks last less than five minutes. In some cases, they last longer—up to 24 hours. If an event goes on longer than that, it's no longer a transient ischemic attack.
A transient ischemic attack feels like the early stages of a stroke. You may experience symptoms like temporary blindness or double vision, weakness or paralysis on one side of the body or face, and speech problems like slurring.
Most experts agree that TIAs rarely, if ever, cause lasting damage. However, in some surveys, people who have suffered TIAs self-report lasting effects, including memory troubles, mobility issues, and speech difficulty.
If you experience a TIA—or suspect you have—get immediate medical care. Treat a TIA as an emergency because it's often a precursor to a stroke, a much more dangerous—often deadly—condition. Brain imaging can help doctors evaluate your risk and decide on a prevention plan.
You can schedule an appointment with our neurology team by calling 617-207-6143 or by submitting a request through our secure online form. We're here to support you every step of the way.
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