My mother-in-law was diagnosed with a TIA. Does that mean she had a stroke?

A transient ischemic attack or TIA, often referred to as a “mini-stroke” or a “warning stroke”, is caused by a temporary decrease or blockage of blood flow to the brain.  The most common causes of a TIA include: atherosclerosis or “hardening of the arteries”, plaque build up along the artery walls that can stop or slow down the blood flow to the brain, and clots or pieces of plaque that break off and travel through out the body blocking the arteries of the brain.

Transient ischemic attacks produce stroke-like symptoms that can last for a few minutes or up to 24 hours with no permanent effect on the brain.  Whereas, a stroke causes a compete blockage of blood flow to the brain causing brain cells to die resulting in permanent brain damage. A TIA is a warning sign that something is wrong.

The signs and symptoms of a TIA are the same as a stroke:

• Sudden numbness or “tingling” or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Sudden confusion, slurring of words, trouble speaking or understanding
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes, blurred or double vision 
• Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
• Sudden, severe headache with no known cause
• Sudden irritability or change in behavior

If you experience these symptoms, you need to seek medical attention immediately. Do not drive yourself to the hospital. Time plays a huge factor in determining the cause and treatment of a mini-stroke and potentially prevents a stroke from occurring.

For more information about transient ischemic attacks (TIA) or for available programs and services, contact Health Link Alberta where nurses are available 24-7 to provide health advice and information. Call 1-866-408-LINK (5465) or 780-408-LINK (Edmonton area) or 403-943-LINK (Calgary area).
 
You may also visit albertahealthservices.ca for related health information and programs and services in your area.