Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

A third type of stroke event is the TIA. These will not appear on diagnostic imaging 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.