TIAs are minor strokes that occur suddenly, usually last only a few minutes and cause no lasting damage. That doesn’t mean they are harmless. According to the American Heart Association, TIAs are often warning signs: one-third of those who suffer TIAs eventually have a full-scale stroke.

What are the symptoms?
TIAs typically occur when blood flow to the brain is briefly interrupted, usually from a blood clot. Symptoms are similar to those of stroke but are temporary, usually lasting less than 10 minutes but sometimes persisting for up to 24 hours. They include:

• Numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg

• Loss or distortion of vision in one or both eyes

• Confusion or trouble speaking or understanding

• Dizziness and loss of balance or coordination

• Sudden, severe headache

A prompt medical evaluation is necessary to determine whether it is stroke or a TIA. If it is a TIA, your health care provider may recommend lifestyle changes, medication or even surgery to help lower the risk of stroke in the future.

Neurologist Paul Ariagno, MD, of Lakeshore Health Partners-Neurology, cautions that although symptoms of a TIA are the same as those of a stroke, don’t wait to see if they go away on their own. “Call 911 immediately,” he says. “Every minute counts. If it is a stroke, any delay in treatment increases the likelihood that the person will suffer permanent disability.”

Preventing TIAs and Stroke

A TIA should be a wake-up call that you’re at risk for a more serious and debilitating stroke, notes Dr. Ariagno. “It’s critical that you heed this warning and take steps to prevent a catastrophic event in the future.”
To reduce your risk of stroke:

• Control high blood pressure and cholesterol levels through a combination of diet, exercise and medication, if prescribed by your doctor

• Stop smoking and avoid excessive alcohol use

• Lose weight if you are overweight

• Manage your condition if you have diabetes