What is a Transient Ischemic Attack called?

A Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) is often called a mini-stroke, but it’s really a major warning. A TIA or mini stroke is a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain. Since it doesn’t cause permanent damage, it’s often ignored. But this is a big mistake since mini stokes may signal a full-blown stroke ahead.

Even though they can be troubling, mini strokes do not appear to cause lasting damage. The human body fights back quickly by pushing the clot “downstream” or by using natural clot-dissolvers — anticoagulants — in the blood. The blockage isn’t in place long enough to do any lasting damage.

Up to 25 percent of people who suffer a mini stroke die within one year, and about one-third of people who have a mini stroke go on to have a more severe stroke within one year. A mini stroke can signal a future stroke. Take the warning seriously and don’t delay seeing a doctor!