What is a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

What is a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

A Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), commonly known as a mini-stroke, is a temporary period of insufficient blood supply to the brain. It usually lasts from a few minutes to a few hours. While a TIA typically does not cause permanent brain damage, it is a serious warning sign indicating a potential risk for a major stroke.

Characteristics of TIA

• Short-lived Symptoms: Symptoms usually disappear within a few minutes to a few hours, but never exceed 24 hours.
• Stroke-like Symptoms: Includes limb weakness, slurred speech, facial drooping, blurred vision, and balance disorders.
• Insufficient Blood Supply to the Brain: Caused by a temporary blockage in the blood vessels supplying a part of the brain, leading to temporary ischemia.
• High Risk: TIA is a strong predictor of future stroke, with about one-third of stroke patients having had a TIA beforehand.

Common Symptoms of TIA

• Limb Weakness: Usually on one side of the body, sometimes including the face.
• Slurred Speech: Muddled or difficult-to-understand speech.
• Facial Drooping: Drooping or asymmetry on one side of the face.
• Visual Problems: Blurred vision or vision loss in one or both eyes.
• Balance and Coordination Issues: Unsteady walking, dizziness, or loss of balance.
• Loss of Consciousness: Although rare, brief loss of consciousness may occur.

Causes of TIA

• Atherosclerosis: Plaque formation on the blood vessel walls leading to narrowing or blockage.
• Thrombosis: Blood clots blocking brain blood vessels.
• Vasospasm: Temporary constriction of blood vessels, reducing blood flow.
• Heart Issues: Conditions like atrial fibrillation may lead to clot formation that can travel to the brain.