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What is a Mini Stroke?

A mini stroke, or transient ischemic attack (TIA), is an actual stroke that sometimes can take just minutes, so no one is aware that it even happened. Unlike a major stroke, a mini stroke usually resolves itself within 24 hours. The area of the body that was affected, for example, the right leg, returns to its original function or, in some cases, has improved function.

  1. Brain Function

    • The brain controls all the functions of the body involving movement and sensation. The right side of the brain controls the left side of the body and the left side of the brain controls the right side of the body. The Broca's area of the brain controls speech and is located on the left frontal cortex of the brain. The occipital lobes in the back of the brain control vision. A person's balance and coordination are controlled at the base of the brain or cerebellum. If one of these areas no longer receives blood supply from the carotid artery in the front of the neck (where the blood flows from the heart to the brain), then it will stop working and cause an ischemic attack or stroke.

    Causes

    • During a TIA, blood supply to the brain is blocked, but only temporarily. Narrowing of the arteries in the heart, blood clots in the brain, and complications due to high blood pressure can all block blood supply. You may need a thorough physical examination so that your doctor is able to assess whether you are at risk for a TIA or stroke. Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol, and check whether you have diabetes or a family history of stroke or the above conditions.

    Symptoms

    • Symptoms of a TIA are the same as those experienced with a stroke. The brain is suddenly affected, producing difficulty with speech, vision, and movement. A person may feel confused and begin to slur his words or be unable to follow commands. If the neurologic disruption is coming from the cerebellum, then symptoms are different and the person may experience difficulty with balance, walking, and dizziness. The person may suddenly fall.

    Major Stroke Risk

    • The chance of having a major stroke is higher after having a TIA because TIA's often serve as a warning sign of an upcoming stroke. One-third of those who experience a TIA go on to have an actual stroke. Making use of this knowledge gives you the opportunity to find out the cause of the TIA and prevent a major stroke from happening, thus possibly preventing neurologic damage.

    Knowledge Is Power

    • Maintaining one's health is a lifelong endeavor. To minimize the risks of a TIA or stroke, be sure to never smoke or to stop smoking if you currently do so. Exercise and eat healthy. Be sure to see your doctor regularly to help keep diabetes, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure under control to prevent narrowing of the arteries, which can lead to a stroke.

      If you or someone you know exhibits any of the above symptoms or behaviors, call 911 immediately for medical help. Neurologic conditions are time-sensitive. The sooner you receive medical care, the better the chance of recovery and survival.

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