Transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a temporary interruption of the blood flow to an area of the brain. TIAs are a warning sign that a stroke may soon follow.
A clot in an artery, a drop in blood pressure, or a change in heart rhythm or rate may all reduce blood flow to the brain and result in a TIA.
Symptoms of a TIA are similar to those of a stroke. They may include:
- Sudden numbness, tingling, weakness, or paralysis in your face, arm, or leg, especially on only one side of your body.
- Sudden vision changes.
- Sudden trouble speaking.
- Sudden confusion or trouble understanding simple statements.
- Sudden problems with walking or balance.
- A sudden, severe headache that is different from past headaches.
Unlike a stroke, a TIA does not cause lasting symptoms. Symptoms usually go away after 10 to 20 minutes.
A TIA is considered a warning sign of an impending stroke.
| By | Healthwise Staff |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Richard D. Zorowitz, MD - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation |
| Last Revised | May 24, 2010 |
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