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Transient Ischaemic Attack
Medical Questions » Transient Ischaemic Attack
| Name: Transient Ischaemic Attack |
| Also known as: TIA |
| Type of funny turn in elderly people due to a temporary miniature stroke. |
Causes of Transient Ischaemic Attack
Most caused by hardening and narrowing of arteries (arteriosclerosis) in the neck and brain by excessive deposition of cholesterol that causes small blood clots to form. A clot may break off from the artery wall and travel through the arteries into the brain, where it may briefly obstruct an artery, causing temporary damage to the brain tissue beyond the blockage. Spasms of arteries caused by stress, toxins or allergies may also be responsible. |
Symptoms of Transient Ischaemic Attack
The patient feels strange and acts peculiarly. There may be weakness in one arm or leg, abnormal sensations (eg. pins and needles, numbness), disturbances in vision, abnormally slurred speech, dizziness, confusion, tremor and blackouts. The symptoms may last for a few seconds or several hours. |
Tests for Transient Ischaemic Attack
Blood tests, ultrasound examination of arteries in the neck, special X-rays of arteries in the brain, and CT scans of the brain may be performed to determine the cause. |
Treatment for Transient Ischaemic Attack
There is no specific treatment. Aspirin or warfarin taken long term in low doses prevent most TIAs, and often prevent strokes too, by preventing blood clots.
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Complications of Transient Ischaemic Attack of its treatment
May be an early warning of narrowed arteries in the brain, and can forewarn of strokes. All patients experiencing a TIA need to be fully investigated. |
Likely Outcome of Transient Ischaemic Attack
Temporary condition, and the patient returns to normal within 24 hours. |
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