Some people may suddenly experience confusion, speech changes, altered sight, or problems with balance only to have the symptoms completely resolve within 24 hours. Although the symptoms may have disappeared, this experience may be a warning sign that an actual stroke is looming in the near future. Learn about a transient ischemic attack (TIA), its relation to stroke, and what to do if someone experiences symptoms of a stroke that resolve on their own.
What are the Symptoms of a TIA?
A transient ischemic attack is known by several different names, including:
- TIA
- mini stroke
- warning stroke
A TIA resembles the symptoms of a stroke and is very difficult to distinguish from an actual stroke while it is happening. The biggest difference between a TIA and a stroke is that TIA symptoms resolve, or return to normal, within 24 hours. No lasting damage is experienced with a TIA while a true stroke may have long-lasting effects requiring significant rehabilitative therapy with possible permanent disability due to damaged areas of the brain.
According to the National Stroke Association’s 2009 online article entitled “What is TIA?” symptoms of a TIA appear suddenly and may include:
- numbness, particularly on one side, of the body and/or face
- confusion, including speech, thought, or communication
- sight problems that may affect one or both eyes
- balance problems, dizziness, or trouble walking
What Causes Symptoms of a Stroke That Disappear?
The main arteries that supply the brain with oxygen-rich blood are called the carotid arteries, and a TIA often results from altered blood flow through these arteries. According to the above cited article, TIA symptoms result when blood flow to the brain is altered due to a variety of reasons that might include, but are not limited to:
- lowered blood flow through the carotid arteries
- a blood clot that has formed in another part of the body and has become lodged in an artery supplying blood to the brain
- a buildup of fatty substances, or plaque, also called arteriosclerosis, in an artery supplying oxygenated blood to the brain
Seek Emergency Care Even if Stroke Symptoms Resolve on Their Own
According to an August 2009 article in The Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry by N. Sprigg entitled “A systematic review of delays in seeking medical attention after transient ischemic attack,” many people do not seek immediate treatment for a TIA because they fail to recognize the changes as symptoms of TIA or stroke.
The first step in preventing a future stroke after experiencing a TIA is to recognize the symptoms and to seek immediate medical attention by calling 911 or seeking immediate hospital care. The person experiencing a TIA should not drive him or herself to the hospital. A TIA should be considered a medical emergency.
Even if the symptoms disappear as quickly as they appeared, the person is in danger of experiencing an actual stroke. According to the above cited National Stroke Association article, nearly half (about 40%) of people who experience a TIA will experience a stroke, and about half of all stroke victims experienced a TIA within two days of the stroke. People who experience a TIA are about ten times more likely to experience a full stroke than others who are the same age and gender.
Stroke is the third leading cause of death in American adults. Seniors are particularly at risk for experiencing a stroke. According to the American Heart Association’s 2010 online article entitled “Stroke Risk Factors,” “the chance of having a stroke approximately doubles for each decade after age 55.”
Focused and Appropriate TIA Treatment and Therapy May Prevent Future Stroke
The goal of treating a TIA is to try to prevent a future stroke and will vary depending on the cause. Examples of possible treatments and/or therapies may include:
- lifestyle changes and modifications, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation, etc.
- medications to treat underlying conditions such as hypertension, high cholesterol, or coronary artery disease
- surgeries to improve blood flow to the brain
Recognizing and Treating TIA Helps Prevent Stroke
Thankfully, the symptoms of a TIA disappear within 24 hours. The person does not tend to experience long-term effects related to a TIA. By quickly recognizing the symptoms of a TIA, which closely resembles a stroke, and seeking immediate emergency hospital care, the person experiencing a TIA may be able to identify specific risk factors with appropriate treatment that is focused on preventing a future stroke.
This article is for informational purposes and should not be considered medical advice. Seek immediate emergency care if experiencing signs of TIA or stroke.
Katrena Wells - Katrena Wells is a RN in NC with 17 1/2 years of experience in oncology, an educator since 1995, and has taught exercise classes since ...
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