TIA Stroke Treatment

A transient ischemic attack (TIA), or mini-stroke, occurs when any area of the brain suffers a temporary interruption of blood flow. A drop in blood pressure, a clot in the arteries or a heart rhythm or rate change can all reduce blood flow to the brain and contribute to a TIA. A TIA differs from a stroke because the symptoms usually disappear after 10 to 20 minutes. A TIA, nevertheless, is considered a warning sign of a stroke. TIA treatments are designed to prevent another stroke, whether mini or full blown.

Reduce Risks

• Obesity, smoking and alcohol are contributing factors to TIA. If you are overweight, exercise and diet to lose weight. According to Medicine Net, women should have a waistline of 35 inches or less, men should have a waistline of 40 inches or less and all individuals should have a BMI goal of 18.5 to 24.9. Limit alcohol consumption and stop smoking. Exercise moderately at least 30 minutes per day. If you have a disability, doctors can tailor an exercise program to suit your capabilities.

Therapies

• Consider anti-platelet therapy. If you are not already on it, the doctor will start you on an aspirin regimen. If you are already taking aspirin, the doctor can prescribe an anti-platelet drug like dipyridamole in addition to aspirin or aggrenox, which is a combination of dipyridamole and aspirin. For high cholesteral, doctors often recommend a statin drug. Even if you do not suffer from hypertension, the doctor may prescribe an ACE inhibitor or diuretic.

Other Medications

• Blood thinners or anticoagulant medicines like warfarin work for people who have atrial fibrillation and may decrease your chances for another mini-stroke.