Transient Ischemic Attack: A Warning Sign of Cerebral Vascular Disease
A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a symptom of cerebrovascular disease and a warning sign of a potential stroke. Therefore, it is considered an emergency that requires timely examination and treatment. The manifestations of a TIA are quite recognizable.
Patients may suddenly lose consciousness while engaging in regular activities; they may experience headaches, light weakness, or paralysis on one side of the body; they might have difficulty speaking or may be unable to speak at all; they could lose vision in one eye or both eyes; they may experience loss of balance, dizziness, or instability while walking; and they might show signs of heart rhythm disturbances or carotid artery obstruction. These symptoms occur abruptly, lasting only 1-10 minutes, and do not persist for more than an hour. If symptoms last longer than one hour, it is classified as a stroke, as this indicates that a region of the brain has been damaged.
Patients typically recover completely within a few minutes or within one hour. However, they may experience multiple episodes and could have a real stroke, which entails prolonged coma and paralysis, potentially leading to irreversible damage or even death. A transient ischemic attack is regarded as a medical emergency. If a TIA occurs, it is imperative to call for emergency assistance. Patients need to be examined and undergo tests to rule out the possibility of a stroke, ensuring they receive urgent care.
