Although the phrase transient ischemic attacks sound complicated, its meaning is fairly straightforward. A TIA is a temporary interruption in the blood supply to a portion of the brain, which usually doesnt last more than a few minutes or few hours. TIA's can be caused by travelling clots, just as in full fledged stroke, or they can be caused by clogged up artery walls. Infact, the only difference between a TIA and a stroke is that a TIA is temporary. Clots or clogging deposits are eventually broken up or dissolved.
Symptoms: Visual loss, weakness or numbness, slurred speech, loss of speech, vertigo, loss of balance. Before the clot or deposit disappears, symptoms may appear. As with a completed stroke, the symptoms of TIA also depends on the area of brain where the blood supply was interrupted. Unfortunately, because these symptoms disappear, sometimes within minutes, they are often ignored. Furthermore, because they are often vague or mild we often ignore them. After all , who wants to believe that they could be having a stroke? But therein lies the danger of TIA. Yes its symptoms fade, but the underlying mechanisms that created it still are hidden within our bodies. Blood still can be filled with cholesterol. Artery walls can still be vulnerable. Clots still can be forming. For a TIA to be an effective warning, medical intervention is crucial. This is an emergency! Period.
Preventive measures for hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol or any of the controllable risk factors can be initiated only if a physician is made aware of your TIA symptoms immediately though you may find them inconsequencial. Here are the most common symptoms: Temporary weakness, numbness, or paralysis of the hand, arm, leg or face on one or both sides of the body are the most crucial "red flag" symptoms. and if immediately brought to your physicians atention, can save your life. One note: this weakness or numbness is not the same thing as the pins and needles you feel when , for example your foot falls asleep. It comes quickly and leaves just as fast.
Sudden blurred, dimmed, or complete loss of vision in one or both eyes that lasts longer than a few seconds.
Speech and language difficulties which can involve having trouble actually speaking and understanding the spoken word( aphasia) or the written word (alexia). Slurred or thick speech ( disarthria) can also be presented as symptoms of TIA. Other symptoms may include lack of coordination or balance( ataxia), vertigo, which should be associated with other symptoms, for it to signify an attack. For example dizziness without numbness, weakness, or speech problems is rarely a sign of TIA. Similarly nausea or vomiting in combination with other symptoms of TIA can signal a possible attack. TIA is reversible. Heeding its warning signs can go far in preventing a stroke. But sometmes the "dreaded impossible" occurs, despite our best intentions and care.