Slurred speech. Confusion. Numbness on one side of the body. Seems like a stroke, right? However, if those stroke-like symptoms subside rather rapidly and seem rather minor, they may be caused instead by a TIA (transient ischemic attack). But before breathing that sigh of relief and returning to life as usual, it is very important to understand TIA symptoms and facts and why they should be brought to the attention of a health care professional immediately.
What Exactly Is a TIA?
TIAs result from a blocked blood vessel that temporarily obstructs the flow of blood to the brain. Signs resemble those that take place during a stroke, but are resolved quickly and do not cause long-lasting neurological problems or brain damage. Consequently, many people shrug them off without seeking medical care.
Why Tell the Doctor About a TIA?
Think of a TIA as a critical “check engine” light in your car. While you may still be able to drive the vehicle, ignoring the error message could lead to tragedy. Once a TIA has taken place, there is a 10 – 20% risk of stroke in the next 7 days, and a 9 – 17% risk in 90 days.
Also, given that stroke and TIA symptoms are so much alike, you can’t tell at first which condition is taking place. Immediate medical attention is critical in the event of a stroke. The longer left untreated, the more injury a stroke can cause to the brain, and the more severe and long-lasting the impairments may be.
Chris Streib, MD, Neurologist at M Health Fairview, states, “In some ways, people who have a TIA are actually very fortunate. It’s a warning that they are at high risk of a stroke that could cause permanent deficits. They have a chance to make immediate lifestyle and medication change to reduce their risk of an actual stroke.”
Take These Steps if You Suspect a TIA
If you detect the signs below that may indicate either a TIA or stroke, call 911 right away. A visit to the emergency room can allow for imaging and further tests to view the brain and blood vessels, determine the cause of the event, and then get started on a treatment plan. Treatment for TIA is different from that of a stroke, so getting a correct diagnosis as fast as possible is key.
The latest recommendations to check for TIA or stroke symptoms are to follow the acronym BE FAST:
- B: Balance. Is the person having trouble standing up?
- E: Eyes. Is the person having vision problems?
- F: Face. Is one side of the person’s face drooping?
- A: Arms. Is the person experiencing weakness or numbness in one arm?
- S: Speech. Is the person having trouble speaking, or are words slurred?
- T: Timing. Call 911 immediately, and note the time the symptoms started.
Home Care Will Help!
Compassionate Care Home Health Services’ home care services support adults before, during, or after a TIA or stroke in multiple ways, including:
- Monitoring for changes in condition and making arrangements for immediate emergency medical care and attention if any concerning symptoms are noted
- Providing transportation to doctor appointments and procedures
- Making sure that recommended lifestyle changes are implemented by preparing healthy and balanced meals, motivation for advised physical fitness plans, etc.
- Providing medication reminders so medicines are taken exactly as the doctor has directed
- And much more
Contact us online or call us at 877.308.1212 to learn more about our senior care in Traverse City and surrounding areas and to request your free in-home assessment.