TIA

[NONU]

SIR,
Like UNSTABLE ANGINA in cardiology,are there any Characteristic featres which differentiate UNSTABLE TIA likely to develop stroke very soon and hence require aggressive treatment rather than NOT SO MALIGNANT TIA.
THANKS

[CCF-Neuro-M.D.-JT]

Although TIAs cannot be directly compared to angina due to the numerous and diverse clinical manifestations possible with a TIA, there are some symptoms that automatically send a red flag to the neurologist. One of which is the loss of vision in one eye that is like a shade coming over the eye. Usually lasts only a few seconds or minutes and then goes away. This is worrisome for a blocked artery in the neck called carotid artery and is considered a warning sign for a major stroke. Treatment consists of surgical or endovascular opening of the artery on an urgent basis. This is probably the most well known type of TIA requiring immediate attention that is recognized by all types of docs. There are of course many other types of TIAs that you could possibly have such as one side of the body becoming weak ro numb and sudden loss of speech or difficulty speaking. HOpe that helps.

[debra21784]

Not a doc but an RN who had a stroke so I'lll give you my understanding.TIA is usually the precursor to a stroke in many individuals.If you are having TIA's they should be treated with at least Asprin as a anticouglant effect.The TIA is a symptom that a portion of the brain is having a momentary lack of oxygen/blood flow and usualyy resolves after a few minutes with no lasting neuro deficts.There should be investigative studies conducted to look at your risk factors foe stroke such as heart disease coranory heart disease and vessel changes,especially the carotids,hypertension, etc.
You should see your doc and get the necessary specialities involved in your care and possibly look at an MRI that can detect any vessel changes.Get some care

[bozoolinda]

I have been having problems with unusual muscle changes in my face. These only last a few minutes. I have had several over the last year and the doctors are not sure if they are TIA's. Could ECT's cause this also. I am going to have another MRI.

[AnnaFrank]

I'm hoping that someone can answer my question.  My husband had a stroke 3 years ago, which affected all aspects of his communication skills.  A few weeks ago, he experienced an episode (trouble seeing out of both eyes).  His comprehension was also affected. He said that nothing made sense (TV or me). All of this lasted a few minutes.  I suspect that it was a TIA.  However, he wouldn't let me call his neurologist and also refused to go to the ER.  I keeping thinking that this is a sign that another stroke is eminent.  He is on coumadin (a good thing) but continues to drink everyday (very bad).

If it was a TIA, which artery would have been affected?  I'm not sure what I should do.