What is a Mini Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack?

Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability and death worldwide. It happens when the blood supply to the brain is blocked or reduced. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of stroke so you can act quickly and minimise the potential damage. A transient ischemic attack (TIA), sometimes referred to as a mini stroke, can be a warning sign of stroke.

A mini-stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a type of stroke where the blood flow to the brain is blocked or reduced for a short amount of time. The attack generally lasts for less than 5 minutes and the symptoms – which are similar to those of a regular stroke – can last anywhere from a few minutes to 24 hours. Although mini-strokes are generally considered harmless in the short term, they can be a warning sign of a major stroke in the future.

Recognising the Symptoms of Mini Stroke

The symptoms of a mini stroke can be similar to those of a major stroke, but they are usually less severe. They include:

– Weakness or paralysis of the face, arm or leg

– Trouble speaking or understanding language

– Trouble seeing out of one or both eyes
– Difficulty walking
– Loss of balance or coordination
– A sudden, severe headache

If you or someone you know is having any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Treatments for Mini Stroke

In some cases, treating the underlying cause of a mini stroke can help reduce the symptoms and the risk of a full-blown stroke. Common treatments for mini stroke include:

– Medication: Certain medications can be used to thin the blood or reduce irregular heartbeats, which can help treat the underlying cause of a mini stroke.

– Surgery: If the cause of a mini stroke is a blocked artery, surgery may be recommended to clear the blockage.

– Lifestyle changes: Making changes to your lifestyle may also help reduce the risk of mini stroke. For example, quitting smoking, decreasing alcohol consumption and managing diabetes can all help reduce the risk of mini stroke.

Preventing Future Mini Strokes

Although mini strokes are generally considered harmless, they can be a warning sign of a major stroke, so it is important to take steps to reduce the risk of future mini strokes. Some of the steps you can take to reduce the risk of future mini stroke include:

– Controlling high blood pressure and cholesterol: Taking medications and making lifestyle changes to control high blood pressure and cholesterol levels can help reduce the risk of mini strokes.

– Quitting smoking: Smoking increases the risk of stroke. Quitting smoking can help reduce the risk of a mini stroke.

– Eating a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet that is low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium can help reduce the risk of a mini stroke.

– Being physically active: Being physically active for at least 30 minutes most days of the week can help reduce the risk of stroke.

– Managing diabetes: If you have diabetes, taking medications and making lifestyle changes to control your blood sugar levels can help reduce the risk of a mini stroke.