Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

A third type of stroke event is the TIA. These are mini-strokes and are brief episodic stroke symptoms that typically last less than 24 hours. Generally, no permanent loss of ability is noticed after a TIA.

Here are typical symptoms of a TIA:

• Sudden onset of numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Sudden lack of coordination
• Sudden onset of confusion or trouble speaking or understanding
• Sudden onset of vision disturbance in one or both eyes
• Sudden trouble walking or sudden dizziness
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause

It’s important to monitor patients who have experienced TIAs. Fifteen percent of all stroke patients will have experienced a TIA prior to the stroke. Here is the risk of stroke after TIA:

• 10% after seven days
• 14% after 30 days
• 18% after 90 days

After a minor stroke, the risk of recurrence is even greater:

• 11.5% after 7 days
• 15% after 30 days
• 18.5% after 90 days

At WakeMed, we provide treatment and observation of patients suspected of having a TIA, including expedited diagnostic testing, risk factor identification and management, and patient and family education.