Mini Stroke (TIA): Everything You Need to Know

A ministroke or sometimes referred to as transient ischemic attack (TIA), is a form of stroke that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is cut off for a moment. In most cases, a blood clot causes this cut off.

A ministroke does not cause any permanent damage, but it is often a warning sign of stroke. At least one person in three gets full-blown stroke months or years after getting a ministroke. A full-blown stroke cuts the blood supply to the brain for a longer time, and this can result in permanent damage.

In this blog, we will discuss TIA in detail so you can know when to see a doctor. We are here for you if you are looking for an ER near Houston.

What are the Symptoms of a Ministroke?

Typically, a ministroke is not that easy to identify. However, there are a few symptoms that can indicate that you had a ministroke. These symptoms vary from one person to another. The most common ones include:

• Balance issues
• Severe headache
• An unusual sense of smell
• Passing out
• An unusual sense of taste
• Confusion
• Vision changes
• Tingling
• Difficulty speaking
• Altered level of consciousness
• Numbness or weakness on one side of the body, either right or left.

If you are having any of the above symptoms, call an ER for help. We are here for you if you are looking for a 24-hour emergency room in Houston. Our clinic has the facilities to help you with any problem.

That said, the most common symptom people who have suffered ministroke experiences is dysphasia. This is a condition where a person finds it difficult to speak. Individuals who had suffered a TIA tell their doctors that they had difficulties recalling words. Others are able to say words but fail to understand what the words mean.

Temporary blindness is also a major sign of TIA. If the ministroke affects the amaurosisfugax, your world can turn gray, and the things you see seem blurry. We are here for you if you are looking for an emergency room in Houston.

What are the Causes of Ministroke?

Typically, ministrokes are caused by blood clots. However, there are other causes of the condition, and they include:

• Diabetes
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Carotid artery disease: This infection occurs if the external or internal carotid artery of one’s brains is blocked.
• Atherosclerosis, a condition caused by plaque buildup in the brain

How Are Ministrokes Treated?

A ministroke does not lead to any permanent damage, but it is still important that you visit the doctor and get a diagnosis. This is because TIA symptoms are pretty much the same as symptoms of a stroke. You might not be able to tell if it is a ministroke or a full-blown stroke. The doctor uses MRI and CT scans to look at your brain and tell if it is a stroke or ministroke. That said, here are the treatments for ministrokes:

Antiplatelet Drugs

Antiplatelet drugs are used to prevent blood clots that cause TIA. They include medications such as aspirin, Aggrenox, Plavix, and Effient.

Anticoagulants

Anticoagulants also prevent blood clots by targeting proteins that cause clots instead of blood platelets. These medications include Coumadin, Eliquis, and Xarelto.

Minimally Invasive Intervention

This is a surgical approach, and it usually involves accessing the arteries using a catheter. It is inserted through the groin into the femoral artery. The doctor uses a special device to open up clogged arteries to help improve blood flow to the brain.

Surgery

Sometimes, the doctor may suggest surgery to prevent future full-blown strokes. In most cases, surgical intervention is for persons with severe narrowing of the carotid artery. The doctor clears the carotid artery of any plaque buildup and fatty deposits.

Lifestyle Changes

Some lifestyle changes can help manage the symptoms of TIA. These changes include exercising, losing weight, eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, reducing stress, and reducing your intake of sugary and fried foods.

How Can You Prevent A Ministroke?

You can prevent TIA by implementing a few lifestyle changes. These tips can help you reduce the risk of TIA:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Don’t smoke
• Limit your alcohol intake
• Eat a balanced diet that includes more vegetables and fruits.
• Don’t do drugs
• Reduce stress
• Limit your fat and cholesterol intake

Houston Emergency Clinic

Talk to us if you are looking for emergency care in 77030 and let us help you. At Ascent ER, we have facilities to help you with any emergency. Book an appointment now.