The Difference Between Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) and Stroke

In the U.S., strokes are the fifth leading cause of death and cause of long-term disability. There are different causes but recognizing the warning signs and symptoms can greatly improve the outcome.

What is a stroke?

A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that’s carrying oxygen to your brain is blocked by a clot or bursts. This results in a portion of your brain not receiving the required blood and oxygen which can lead to the loss of brain cells.

What is a transient ischemic attack?

A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a temporary stroke where blood briefly stops flowing to part of your brain. The only difference between a stroke and a TIA is that a TIA doesn’t result in permanent damage. The only clear way to discern the difference is to obtain imaging, preferably an MRI.

Like a stroke, a TIA is a health emergency. A TIA is like a warning for a more life-threatening stroke.

It’s important to seek medical attention immediately if you’re suddenly experiencing any of the symptoms listed below:

• Onset weakness on one side of the body

• Facial droop

• Speech issues (either speaking or understanding)

• Numbness or tingling on one side of the body

• Vision changes

• Dizziness and/or balance issues

• Severe headache with no other known cause

If these symptoms occur, call 911 immediately and proceed to the nearest emergency department for evaluation and treatment. A stroke is time critical. The sooner you arrive at the hospital, the more likely you are to receive the treatment that can help preserve brain function.

Use the BE FAST (Balance, Eyes, Face, Arm, Speech, Time) acronym, to test if someone has symptoms of a stroke.

How can I prevent a transient ischemic attack or a stroke?

You can prevent a TIA by addressing any health risk factors with your primary care provider. Small steps in your health can lead to a large impact on your overall health’s future.

Prevention includes screening for and managing conditions that raise your risk of a TIA or stroke.

Adjustable risk factors:

• Elevated blood pressure

• Elevated cholesterol levels

• Increased body mass index

• Diabetes

• Smoking

• Certain cardiac arrhythmias, like atrial fibrillation

• Drug and alcohol abuse

Non-adjustable risk factors:

• Age

• Genetics

• Race

• Gender

By following these daily tasks below, you can reduce your risk of having a stroke:

• Have a yearly physical

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Follow your provider’s diet advice

• Stop or don’t start using tobacco products

• Consume alcohol in moderation

• Take medications as prescribed

• Follow provider’s instructions for chronic conditions

What are the treatment options for a transient ischemic attack?

If you experience any of the signs and symptoms, you need to visit an emergency department immediately.

The care team will determine the treatment. It may include medication to break up a clot or a procedure to remove the clot. Not everyone will qualify for these specific treatments based on several health factors. But, these treatments offer hope of improvement and recovery.

Make sure to follow up with your primary care provider. During this appointment, you can discuss your health plan, including your blood pressure and cholesterol goals. Based on your health history and recent occurrences, your provider can decide the best course of action.

Take this stroke risk assessment to know your risk.

Take the quiz!