A mini stroke is the common term of a transient ischemic attack, or a TIA. A TIA causes symptoms that mimic a stroke; however, these symptoms often completely resolve after a short time with no lasting effects. The MayoClinic.com refers to a mini stroke as both a warning and an opportunity for necessary lifestyle changes.
What a Mini Stroke Is
A mini stroke, also known as a transient ischemic attack or TIA, occurs when part of the brain is deprived of oxygen temporarily. A TIA is always short-lived. In fact, the American Heart Association reports that the average duration of a TIA is about 60 seconds. This is one of the things that separates a TIA from a stroke: the effects of a mini stroke resolve within 24 hours, while deficits from a full stroke last for much longer.
Mini Stroke Effects
When a person has a mini stroke, they often experience symptoms similar to those seen in a full stroke. These include numbness or weakness, often located on one side of the body, and difficulty coordinating movements or walking. In addition to difficulty with coordinating the limbs, a mini stroke can also cause problems coordinating the muscles used for speech. Because of this, slurred speech is another common mini stroke symptom. A mini stroke may also cause temporary cognitive effects. These include difficulty speaking or understanding speech, and thought confusion. Finally, a TIA can produce temporary visual problems, such as blurry vision or the loss of a portion of the visual field.
Treating a Mini Stroke
Like a stroke, a mini stroke requires immediate medical attention, even though its effects are not permanent. According to the MayoClinic.com, prompt medical treatment after a TIA can help prevent another attack from occurring, and may help stave off a full stroke. A mini stroke diagnosis often involves taking a history, in which the person describes the effects from their TIA. A doctor may also perform a physical exam, or additional tests such as a CT scan or MRI. While these tests may not detect any actual evidence of a TIA, they can identify potential causes, helping the doctor narrow down appropriate treatments.
Mini Stroke: a Warning?
A mini stroke should be seen as a warning. Ignoring the effects of a TIA can put a person at greater risk in the future. A number of factors can increase the risk for a TIA or a stroke, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity and smoking. While the effects of a TIA are not permanent, the odds of a second one occurring are higher if risk factors are not addressed. While some predispositions for a mini stroke cannot be altered, such as genetics or age, simple lifestyle changes may reduce the future risks of a repeat attack. According to the American Heart Association, multiple mini strokes can be an indicator of a full stroke to come.
After a Mini Stroke
After 24 hours, when all effects of a mini stroke should have subsided, a person may have no further medical needs provided they are in stable condition. However, they may be cautioned to watch for future warning signs.
