Transient Ischemic Attack

Question 1

What is a TIA?

Answer 1

Happens when there
is a temporary disruption in the blood supply to part of the brain. The disruption in blood supply results in a lack of oxygen to the brain. This can cause sudden symptoms like those of a stroke. However, a TIA does not last as long as a stroke.

Question 2

How long does a TIA last?

Answer 2

Last a few mins to a few hours and fully resolve within 24 hours.

Question 3

What are some symptoms of a TIA?

Answer 3

Numbness
Paraesthesia or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially unilateral Confusion
Dysarthria or aphasia
Visual disturbances Headache
Acute drop in mobility Dizziness, or loss of
balance and coordination.

Question 4

What are the causes of a TIA?

Answer 4

TIA is a blockage usually caused by a blood clot formed elsewhere in your body and travels a blood vessels supplying the brain
and occludes it. It can also be caused by cholesterol or air bubbles or amniotic fluid.

Question 5

What are the risk factors of a TIA?

Answer 5

Smoking
HTN
Obesity
High chol
Excessive alcohol
AF
Diabetes
Over 55yrs old
People of asian, african or caribbean descent.

Question 6

What are some preventative treatments for a TIA?

Answer 6

Low dose aspirin
Meds review
Health check
Health promotion
No driving for one month

Carotid endarterectomy
Carotid artery disease to carotid artery stenosis

Question 7

How many people get a TIA a year?

Answer 7

50 per 100,000 people per year.

TIA is a warning!!