Often referred to as a “mini-stroke”, a transient ischemic attack (TIA) occurs when there is a temporary decrease of blood supply to the brain which leads to neurological deficits such as:

• numbness/tingling along one side of the body
• confusion
• weakness
• vision changes
• difficulty with speech, balance, or gait

This can occur for a number of reasons but the two most common are a narrowing of the blood vessel or a blood clot.

The difference between a mini stroke/TIA is that the effects of a TIA are temporary or “transient”, generally resolving in less than 24 hours. This is different from a “little stroke” or a full blown stroke which causes permanent loss of function in the body depending on what part of the brain was affected.

The culprit in the vast majority of cases is atherosclerosis (plaque build-up in blood vessels) that restricts the full flow of blood in the arteries. In fact one third of people who have mini strokes/TIAs will go on to develop a full blown stroke. These mini strokes/TIAs are in fact warning signs.

The important thing to remember is that you won’t know if the symptoms will be temporary or permanent so it is vital if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms that you call 911 immediately.

Luckily for my mother, who was recently admitted to the hospital, my father was at home when her symptoms started so he was able to call 911 for her. For my elderly patients who live alone, I strongly recommend monitored medical emergency devices and services that can be worn around the neck or on the wrist.

Thankfully, my mother’s symptoms resolved within 24 hours. Our goal now is to minimize her risk factors for future strokes (mini or otherwise). I’ll be writing more about this in the near future.

For more information about the causes and treatment of strokes, the National Institutes of Health has excellent information.