Transient ischemic attack

Alternative Names

Treatment

The goal is to improve the arterial blood supply to the brain and prevent the development of a stroke.

Treatment of recent TIA (within the prior 48 hours) usually requires admission to the hospital for evaluation of the specific cause and determination of long-term treatment. Underlying disorders should be treated appropriately, including such disorders as hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, arteritis, and blood disorders.

Smoking should be stopped.

Treatment of symptoms of blood disorders (such as erythrocytosis, thrombocytosis, or polycythemia vera, which include an increase in the number of some types of blood cells) may include phlebotomy, hydration, and treatment of the underlying (causative) blood disorder. Antihypertensive medications may be used to control high blood pressure. Medications to lower cholesterol may be useful in reducing high blood cholesterol levels.

Platelet inhibitors and anti-coagulant medications (blood thinners) may be used to reduce clotting. Aspirin is the most commonly used medication. Others include dipyridamole, clopidogrel, Aggrenox or heparin, Coumadin, or other similar medications. Treatment may be continued for an indefinite time period.

A reduced amount of sodium in the diet to help control high blood pressure; diet for diabetics; reduced dietary fat, or other dietary changes may be recommended.

Surgery (carotid endarterectomy) may be appropriate for some people.

Outlook (Prognosis)

By definition, an episode of TIA is brief and recovery is complete. It may recur later that same day or at a later time. Some people have only a single episode, some have recurrent episodes, and some will have a stroke. A TIA needs to be treated as aggressively as a stroke would, as any given TIA could develop into a stroke.

Possible Complications

• Stroke
• TIA recurrence
• Injury that occurs from falls
• Bleeding as a result of anti-coagulant medications

When to Contact a Medical Professional

TIA is a medical emergency. Call 911 or other local emergency number immediately. Do not ignore symptoms just because they resolve! They may be a warning of an impending stroke. Even if symptoms resolve completely, it is important to call your healthcare provider or an emergency number and get immediate medical attention.

References

Mosca L, Banka CL, Benjamin EJ, et al. Evidence-Based Guidelines for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention in Women: 2007 Update. Circulation. 2007; Published online before print February 19, 2007.