Preventing Mini Strokes: Steps To Take Now

A transient ischaemic attack (TIA), or mini-stroke, is a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain, usually caused by a blood clot. This results in a lack of oxygen to the brain, leading to symptoms such as speech and visual disturbances, numbness or weakness in the face, arms, and legs, and severe headaches. While the symptoms of a TIA typically last only a few minutes to a few hours and resolve within 24 hours, it is a warning sign that an individual is at risk of having a full stroke in the future. Therefore, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention and make necessary lifestyle changes to reduce the chances of experiencing another mini-stroke or a more severe stroke.

What are the symptoms of a mini stroke?

A transient ischaemic attack (TIA), or "mini stroke", is caused by a temporary disruption in the blood supply to the brain. This disruptionsection is disruption results in the brain being deprived of oxygen.

The symptoms of a mini stroke are similar to those of a stroke, but a mini stroke does not last as long. The effects of a mini stroke last a few minutes to a few hours and fully resolve within 24 hours.

The main symptoms of a mini stroke can be remembered with the acronym FAST:

• Face – the face may have dropped on one side, the person may not be able to smile, or their mouth or eye may have dropped.
• Arms – the person may not be able to lift both arms and keep them raised because of weakness or numbness in one arm.
• Speech – their speech may be slurred or garbled, or the person may not be able to talk at all, even though they appear awake. They may also have problems understanding what you're saying.
• Time – it's time to call the emergency services immediately if you see any of these signs or symptoms.

In the early stages of a mini stroke, it's not possible to tell whether you're having one or a full stroke. Therefore, it's important to call an ambulance immediately if you or someone else is experiencing any of the symptoms outlined above.

What to do if you think you're having a mini stroke

A transient ischaemic attack (TIA), or "mini stroke", is caused by a temporary disruption in the blood supply to the brain. This disruption results in a lack of oxygen to the brain, which can cause sudden symptoms similar to a stroke, such as speech and visual disturbances, and numbness or weakness in the face, arms, and legs. The effects of a TIA typically last a few minutes to a few hours and fully resolve within 24 hours.

If you think you are having a mini stroke, it is important to act quickly. Here are the steps you should take:

• Check for symptoms: The main symptoms of a TIA can be remembered using the acronym FAST:
• Face: Is one side of your face drooping? Can you smile? Has your mouth or eye drooped?
• Arms: Can you lift both arms and keep them raised? Are you experiencing weakness or numbness in one arm?
• Speech: Is your speech slurred or garbled? Are you unable to talk despite appearing awake? Are you having trouble understanding others?
• Time: If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is time to call the emergency services.
• Call the emergency services: If you think you are having a mini stroke, don't wait for the symptoms to go away. Call 999 or 911 immediately and ask for an ambulance. Note the time when the symptoms first appeared, as this information will help healthcare providers determine the best treatment.
• Do not drive to the hospital: Do not drive yourself to the hospital and do not ask someone else to drive you. Call for an ambulance so that medical personnel can begin providing treatment while on the way to the hospital.
• Seek medical advice: Even if the symptoms disappear while waiting for the ambulance, it is important to still be assessed in a hospital. You should be referred to a specialist within 24 hours of the onset of your symptoms. An assessment can help doctors determine the best way to reduce the chances of a full stroke in the near future.
• Make lifestyle changes: Although the symptoms of a TIA may resolve quickly, you will need treatment to prevent another TIA or a full stroke from occurring in the future. This may include making lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly.

Risk factors for a mini stroke

A transient ischaemic attack (TIA) or "mini stroke" is caused by a temporary disruption in the blood supply to the brain. This disruption results in a lack of oxygen to the brain, which can cause sudden symptoms similar to a stroke, such as speech and visual disturbances, and numbness or weakness in the face, arms and legs.

Non-modifiable risk factors

These factors are inherent and cannot be changed. They include:

• Age: People over 55 years of age are at a higher risk of experiencing a TIA. The stroke rate is observed to double every 10 years after the age of 55.
• Genetics and family history: A family history of stroke or TIA can increase the risk. Additionally, certain genetic traits, such as the MTHFR 677T allele, have been identified as potential risk factors.
• Race: People of Asian, African, or Caribbean descent are at a higher risk of having a TIA. The incidence of TIA has been found to be higher in specific racial and ethnic groups, with the greatest incidence observed in older Black men and Mexican Americans.
• Sex: Males have a higher risk of experiencing a TIA than females.

Modifiable risk factors

These factors can be addressed and changed to reduce the risk of TIA. They include:

• High blood pressure (hypertension): This is a significant risk factor that can be managed through medical intervention and lifestyle changes.
• Tobacco smoking: Smoking increases the risk of TIA and should be avoided.
• High cholesterol levels: Elevated cholesterol levels can contribute to blockages in blood vessels, increasing the risk of TIA.
• Obesity: Maintaining a healthy weight is important, as obesity has been identified as an independent risk factor.
• Alcohol consumption: Regularly drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can increase the chances of having a TIA.
• Cardiovascular factors: Conditions such as atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, and peripheral arterial disease can increase the risk of TIA.
• Diabetes mellitus: Diabetes can be a risk factor for TIA, and managing blood sugar levels is important.
• Physical inactivity: Engaging in regular exercise is crucial, as physical inactivity has been identified as a modifiable risk factor.
• Sleep patterns: Short sleep duration, particularly in young men, has been implicated as a potential risk factor.
• Diet: Eating a healthy and balanced diet is essential to maintaining a healthy weight and managing cholesterol levels.

How are mini strokes diagnosed?

A transient ischaemic attack (TIA), or "mini stroke", is caused by a temporary disruption in the blood supply to the brain. This disruption results in a lack of oxygen to the brain, causing symptoms similar to a stroke, such as speech and visual disturbances, and numbness or weakness in the face, arms and legs. As the effects of a TIA only last a few minutes to a few hours and fully resolve within 24 hours, diagnosis can be challenging.

If you or someone else is experiencing symptoms of a TIA, it is important to call an ambulance and seek medical advice immediately, even if the symptoms disappear while waiting for the ambulance to arrive. An assessment in the hospital should still be done, and you should be referred to see a specialist within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms. This timely assessment can help doctors determine if you are at risk of having a full stroke in the near future and the best course of action to reduce the chances of that happening.

The diagnosis of a mini stroke typically involves a comprehensive evaluation, including an assessment of symptoms, medical history, and cardiovascular disease risks. Trained medical staff will evaluate the patient's condition using hospital equipment, as some signs of TIAs are only visible through specialised tests. This may include checking vital signs, testing brain function, and assessing blood flow and tissue within the brain using imaging techniques such as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan or a computerized tomography (CT) scan. An electrocardiogram (ECG) may also be performed to evaluate the heart's electrical activity and identify any potential issues with the blood supply to the brain.

Additionally, assessing medical history, cardiovascular risks, and blood chemistry can help determine the appropriate medication to prevent blood clots or procedures to remove fatty deposits from the arteries supplying blood to the brain. In some cases, a surgery called a carotid endarterectomy may be necessary to unblock the carotid arteries, which are the main blood vessels supplying blood to the brain.

How to prevent another mini stroke

A transient ischaemic attack (TIA), or mini-stroke, is a temporary disruption in the blood supply to the brain, which can cause symptoms similar to a stroke. While the effects of a TIA only last a few minutes to a few hours, it is a warning sign that you may be at risk of having a full stroke in the future. Therefore, it is important to take steps to prevent another TIA or a full stroke from occurring. Here are some ways to lower your risk:

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Keeping a healthy weight is crucial in reducing the likelihood of experiencing another mini-stroke. Excess weight can increase your risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, all of which are risk factors for TIA and stroke. Losing weight, if necessary, can help improve these conditions and lower your chances of having another TIA.

Eat a Healthy, Balanced Diet

Adopting a healthy diet is essential for maintaining a healthy weight and lowering your risk of TIA and stroke. A low-fat, low-salt, and high-fibre diet is usually recommended, with plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. This type of diet can help lower your cholesterol and keep your blood pressure at a healthy level.

Exercise Regularly

Engaging in regular physical activity is another important component of preventing another mini-stroke. Exercise can help lower your cholesterol and maintain healthy blood pressure. It also improves your overall cardiovascular health, reducing your risk of blood clots and improving your blood flow, both of which are crucial in reducing the likelihood of TIA and stroke.

Stop Smoking

Smoking is a major risk factor for TIA and stroke. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do to reduce your risk of having another mini-stroke. Smoking damages your blood vessels and increases your risk of blood clots, so quitting can significantly improve your chances of maintaining a healthy blood flow to the brain.

Cut Down on Alcohol Consumption

Excessive alcohol intake is another risk factor for TIA and stroke. Reducing the amount of alcohol you drink can help lower your blood pressure and improve your overall health, reducing the likelihood of experiencing another mini-stroke.

Take Medication as Advised

If you have been prescribed medication to reduce your risk of TIA or stroke, it is important to take it as directed by your doctor. This may include antiplatelet or anticoagulant medication to prevent blood clots, medication to lower your blood pressure, or statins to lower your cholesterol.

Attend Regular Check-ups and Follow-up Appointments

Finally, it is important to stay in close communication with your doctor and attend regular check-ups and follow-up appointments. They can monitor your progress, adjust your treatment plan if needed, and provide additional advice and support to help prevent another TIA or stroke.

Frequently asked questions