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Transient Ischemic Attacks & Strokes

Transient ischemic attacks look a lot like strokes. So much alike, in fact, that they’re known to some as a “mini-stroke.” In a transient ischemic attack, the symptoms are exactly like those of a stroke – they simply don’t last as long as a stroke does.

In a transient ischemic attack, the blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or reduced, often by a blood clot. The clot only lasts a short time, however, before it moves on. In stroke victims, the blood flow remains blocked and permanent damage may occur. By contrast, in a TIA victim, the blood clot typically lasts no longer than five minutes.

But TIAs are warnings. They signal to their victims a strong likelihood for a stroke in the future. While most strokes are not preceded by TIAs, one-third of those who have a TIA will experience a stroke later in life. In about half of the cases, the stroke occurs within a year after the TIA.

Transient Ischemic Attack Symptoms

The symptoms of a transient ischemic attack are similar to those of a stroke and include:

· Numbness, a tingly feeling, or heaviness on one side of the body.

· Inability to move an arm, leg, or one side of the face.

· Double vision, blurriness, dimness.

· Inability to speak or slurred speech.

· Inability to understand others.

· Unsteadiness, dizziness, or clumsiness.

The big mistake that victims make while experiencing the symptoms of a transient ischemic attack or a stroke is that they wait for the symptoms to go away. Waiting can be deadly. If you think you are having a TIA, call 911 immediately. Because the symptoms are exactly the same, you may actually be having a stroke.

Transient Ischemic Attack Treatment

The first thing a doctor will do is perform tests to ensure that you are having a transient ischemic attack and not a stroke. Tests may include:

· MRI or CT scan to view pictures of your brain and blood vessels.

· Ultrasound to check blood flow.

· Echocardiogram to check your heart’s shape.

· Electrocardiogram to measure your heart’s rhythm.

Your doctor will also immediately put you on medications to improve blood flow and open up your blood vessels.




Michael S. Weisberg, P.C.
112 College Place
Norfolk, VA 23510
Phone: (757) 622-7740
Fax: (757) 533-9223
Toll Free: (800) 690-0235
Email: info@weislaw.com
www.weislaw.com