Transient Ischemic Attack

Question 1

Pathophysiology of TIA

Answer 1

Temporary neurologic dysfunction resulting from a brief interruption in cerebral blood flow

Question 2

Signs/Symptoms of TIA

Answer 2

Visual Symptoms:
1. Blurred vison
2. Diplopia
3. Hemianopsia
4. Tunnel Vision

Mobility Symptoms:
1. Weakness (facial droop, arm or leg drift, hand grasp)
2. Ataxia

Sensory Perception Symptoms:
1. Numbness (face, hand, arm or leg)
2. Vertigo

Speech Symptoms:
1. Aphasia
2. Dysarthria

Question 3

Risk Factors/Causes of TIA

Answer 3

1. Carotid Stenosis
2. High Blood Pressure
3. Diabetes
4. Atherosclerotic plaque
5. Afib

“Think ABCD”
1. Age greater than or equal to 60
2. Blood Pressure (greater than 140/90)
3. Clinical TIA feature (unilateral weakness)
4. Duration of symptoms

Question 4

Prioritize Assessment needs for a patient experience TIA

Answer 4

1. Neurologic Assessment
2. Routine Laboratory (aPTT, PT, INR)
3. Diagnostic Testing (ECG, CT, MRI, CTA, MRA)

Question 5

Interventions for TIA

Answer 5

1. Minimally invasive surgery to remove atherosclerotic plaque buildup within the carotid artery to increase perfusion
2. Carotid angioplasty with stunting
3. Prescribing antiplatelets (aspirin, clopidogrel)
4. Reducing Blood pressure
5. Controlling diabetes
6. Promoting lifestyle changes (smoking cessation, healthy diet, increasing mobility and physical activity)