The National Institutes of Health (NIH) states that a mini stroke, also called a transient ischemic attack (TIA), is considered a warning sign for a stroke. The person has stroke-like symptoms that last less than 24 hours. Arthur Schoenstadt, M.D., author of the eMedTV article "Mini-Stroke Treatment," states that "of the approximately 50,000 Americans who have a mini stroke each year, about one-third will have an acute stroke sometime in the future." Treatment for a mini stroke involves medication, lifestyle changes and surgery.
Medication
The Mayo Clinic states that two drugs are used most often after a mini stroke. The first drug type is anti-platelet drugs, which prevent platelets from sticking together. Aspirin is used the most, though other options include clopidogrel and ticlopidine. The other drug type used is anticoagulants, which affect the clotting-system proteins. Heparin is a short-term anticoagulant, and warfarin is the long-term option.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes can also help prevent a future stroke from occurring after a mini stroke. The NIH recommends a diet change, such as a low-fat and low-salt diet. Schoenstadt also recommends exercise, and for obese patients to lose weight. If the person is a heavy drinker, he should cut down on his drinking to reduce his future risk. A patient who smokes is also suggested to stop. The patient should also lower his blood pressure and blood cholesterol.
Surgery
The NIH states that surgery after a mini stroke is recommended for a patient who has clogged neck arteries. One surgical option is carotid endarterectomy, in which the doctor removes atherosclerosis plaques after making an incision in the artery. Another surgical option is angioplasty, in which the doctor inserts a stent into the artery to keep it open, according to the Mayo Clinic. Angioplasty is done if carotid endarterectomy is not enough to maintain adequate blood flow to the brain.
