What is a transient ischemic attack?
A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a medical emergency that happens when blood flow to the brain is briefly blocked. It causes stroke-like symptoms such as numbness, weakness, vision changes or trouble speaking. These symptoms come on suddenly but usually go away within minutes or hours without causing lasting damage.
Often called a “mini stroke,” a TIA doesn’t cause permanent damage, but it’s a warning sign that a more serious stroke could happen in the near future. If you or someone else experiences symptoms, don’t ignore them—get medical help right away, even if the symptoms go away on their own. Acting quickly can help prevent a full stroke with lasting health consequences.
Mini stroke symptoms
A TIA causes stroke-like symptoms that go away within minutes or up to 24 hours. Symptoms appear suddenly and may include:
- Feeling confused or having trouble understanding others
- Dizziness, trouble walking or loss of balance
- Numbness, tingling or weakness, often on one side of the body
- Blurry vision, double vision, loss of vision, hearing problems or other sensory changes
- Slurred or mixed-up speech
- Facial drooping
When to see a doctor
There is no immediate way to tell if symptoms are caused by a TIA or a stroke, so it is critical to seek emergency medical care right away. Call an ambulance instead of driving to the hospital.
Anyone experiencing stroke symptoms should be evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible, ideally within an hour. A quick assessment can help determine the cause of the TIA or stroke and the best course of treatment.
What causes TIA?
Your brain needs a supply of blood to keep cells alive and functioning. Arteries in your neck carry blood to your brain, but sometimes, these arteries can become blocked by plaque or a blood clot. The blockage interrupts blood flow to the brain, leading to mini stroke symptoms. This can happen in a few ways:
- Atherosclerosis: Plaque buildup narrows arteries, and the plaque or a blood clot on the plaque may block blood flow.
- Thrombosis: A clot forms in the brain’s arteries, blocking blood flow.
- Embolism: A clot or debris from elsewhere in the body travels to the brain and causes a blockage, like in atrial fibrillation (Afib).
- Injured blood vessels: Damaged arteries can narrow or become blocked, leading to a TIA.
How are transient ischemic attacks diagnosed?
A transient ischemic attack can sometimes be diagnosed through your symptoms and medical history, but tests are usually needed for confirmation. It’s important to seek immediate medical attention if you think you may be having a mini stroke.
Transient ischemic attack treatments
A TIA is a temporary event, but it's a warning that a stroke could happen. By treating the conditions that caused the TIA, you can reduce the risk of having a stroke.
Healthcare providers usually recommend treating these conditions aggressively because strokes are much more serious. Strokes can be harder to treat and can cause lasting damage or even be life-threatening, even with medical intervention. After a stroke has occurred, there are often lasting health impacts.
Common treatments to help prevent a stroke after a TIA include medications, procedures that use a catheter and sometimes surgery.
Complications
Mini stroke symptoms pass within a few minutes to 24 hours without lasting damage. The most serious complication of a TIA is that it increases your risk of a stroke. Almost 20% of people who have a suspected TIA will have a stroke within 90 days.
TIA risk factors
Some factors increase your risk of having a TIA. While some of these you can’t change, others can be managed with lifestyle changes and medical care.
Frequently asked questions
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If you or someone you know is experiencing TIA symptoms, don’t wait—seek medical help immediately. Our North and Central Texas hospitals are equipped with dedicated stroke care teams, ready to provide rapid assessment and treatment to help prevent a more serious stroke. Find the nearest location for the care you need and reduce your risk of a full stroke.