Causes
TIAs are usually caused by one of three things:
- Low blood flow at a narrow part of a major artery carrying blood to the brain.
- A blood clot in another part of the body (such as the heart) breaks off, travels to the brain, and blocks a blood vessel in the brain.
- Narrowing of the smaller blood vessel in the brain, blocking blood flow for a short period of time.
Symptoms
Some of the symptoms for TIA include:
- Numbness on one side of your body
- Confusion
- Dizziness or lose your balance
- Trouble talking or understanding
- Problems with your vision
- Severe headache
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Risk Factors
- Age – over 65
- High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and heart disease
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Family history of strokes
- Atrial Fibrillation
Complications
TIAs may be called "mini" strokes, but their long-term effects aren't minimal. Just like strokes, they're a medical emergency—requiring prompt attention. They serve as warning signs for future strokes and indicate that there is a partially blocked artery or clot source in the heart. Between 10-15% will have a major stroke within 3 months of a TIA.
It is important to note that there are three types of Strokes and up to 80% of strokes can be prevented. Click here to read Everything You Need to Know About Stroke.
1Centers for Disease Control, Types of Stroke
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