Are "small" strokes a precursor for a major stroke?

[Richard1030]

I saw a neurologist a few days ago with the written report of a brain CT scan from another hospital ER.  He said that CT scans are not always the best tools but it would appear that I have had strokes, but they are not bad enough to be called strokes.  I know this sounds strange but that is what he told me.  He has ordered an MRI and I am waiting to find out when that will occur.

I am having other problems such as high blood pressure and a pulse that fluctuates, sometimes by as much as 40 points or more, when I go from sitting to standing.  I am concerned about a heart attack but because of a diagnoses of orthostatic hypotension I cannot take any blood pressure meds until I get an echocardiogram and a cardiology consult.

Now, with the knowledge of these small strokes, whatever they are called, I am concerned about the possible occurence of a major stroke.  Am I justifiably concerned or just needlesly worried.

Thanks.

[Richard1030]

Thanks for your response.  

I hope I don't seem argumentative but I am trying to find answers.  My sole source of medical care is from the VA and it sometimes seems to me that they do not see the same urgency in my situation as I do. Getting neurology and cardiology appoitments,  tests scheduled has been a *****, as they believe my condition is routine.

I have been trying to find out if a TIA is the same as a small stroke.  From what I have read, there may be a difference.  According to the NIH web site, below, a TIA would leave no evideence of damage visible to a CT scan or MRI.  I have been told by 2 doctors that there is evidece of strokes.  These were possibly caused by poor blood flow to my brain.  Of course, in either case, you are correct.  Either can lead to a major stroke.

I have included the NIH web page address and what I felt was the pertinent paragraphs from it below.

Thanks.


http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000730.htm

"A TIA is different than a stroke. Unlike from a stroke, a TIA does not cause brain tissue to die. The symptoms of TIAs do not last as long as a stroke and do not show changes on CT or MRI scans. (Strokes usually show changes on such tests.)"

[michelle90]

They are called TIA's and yes they can end up to a larger one.