Transient Ischemic Attack

Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA, pronounced /ˈtrænziənt aɪˈskiːmɪk əˈtæk/), also known as a mini-stroke, is a brief episode of neurological dysfunction caused by loss of blood flow (ischemia) in the brain, spinal cord, or retina, without tissue death (infarction).

Etymology

The term "Transient Ischemic Attack" originates from the Latin words "transiens" meaning "passing over" and "ischemia" meaning "stopping blood". It refers to the temporary decrease in blood supply to a part of the brain, which results in a short-lived neurological dysfunction.

Definition

A TIA is characterized by the rapid onset of neurological symptoms, which completely resolve within 24 hours. The symptoms depend on the area of the brain that is affected by the lack of blood supply. Common symptoms include weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination, and sudden severe headache.

Causes

The most common cause of a TIA is a tiny blood clot (thrombus) that becomes stuck in a small blood vessel (artery) in the brain. This blocks the blood flow and causes the symptoms of a TIA. Other causes can include narrowing of the blood vessels in the brain (stenosis), high blood pressure (hypertension), high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia), diabetes, and certain heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a TIA is usually based on the patient's symptoms and a physical examination. Additional tests such as a CT scan or MRI of the brain, carotid ultrasound, echocardiogram, or blood tests may be performed to determine the cause of the TIA and to assess the risk of a future stroke.

Treatment

Treatment for a TIA aims to prevent a future stroke. This may involve medications to prevent blood clots (anticoagulants), medications to control risk factors such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol, and in some cases, surgery to open up narrowed blood vessels (angioplasty) or to remove a blockage (endarterectomy).

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Transient Ischemic Attack
Wikipedia's article - Transient Ischemic Attack

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Transient Ischemic Attack