Transient Ischemic Attack

What is Transient Ischemic Attack?

A transient ischemic attack, also known as a mini-stroke, is a temporary episode of neurological symptoms such as weakness or numbness, caused by an interruption in blood flow to a part of the brain.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of a transient ischemic attack are weakness or numbness in the hand, face, arm, or leg; difficulty speaking; blurred or double vision; and decreased vision in one or both eyes. Symptoms usually last from a few minutes to a few hours.

Causes

A transient ischemic attack is caused by a temporary interruption of cerebral blood flow. Risk factors include age, heart disease, high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, and illicit drug use, among others.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a transient ischemic attack involves analyzing symptoms and brain imaging tests. Additional tests may be performed to determine the underlying cause.

Prevention Method

The risks of a transient ischemic attack or a full stroke can be reduced by controlling factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and physical inactivity.

Treatment

Treatment for a transient ischemic attack aims to reduce the risk of stroke and may include antiplatelet therapy such as aspirin, statins to lower cholesterol, anticoagulants, and revascularization in specific cases.

Duration

Symptoms of a transient ischemic attack usually last from a few minutes to hours and are completely reversible. However, immediate medical attention is important because there is a risk of stroke within the next 48 hours.

Contagious?

A transient ischemic attack is not contagious.

Can it occur more than once?

It is possible to have more than one transient ischemic attack during a lifetime. Additionally, individuals with this condition are at higher risk of stroke, especially in the hours that follow.

By the Einstein Editorial Board