WHAT IS A MINISTROKE AND CAN I PREVENT ONE?
Learn the symptoms of a ministroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), and more importantly, what you can do to lower your risks for having one.
What is a Ministroke?
The medical term for a ministroke is Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA). When you break down the terms, you can better understand a TIA and what’s happening:
- Transient: another word for temporary. Ministrokes generally don’t last very long – less than an hour or so.
- Ischemic: indicates blood flow is blocked or restricted. In a TIA it’s obstructed blood flow to the brain.Attack: an unusual, unexpected event. In a TIA the symptoms seem to come out of nowhere.
- Attack: an unusual, unexpected event. In a TIA the symptoms seem to come out of nowhere.
So, a TIA or ministroke is an unexpected event in which blood flow to part of your brain is temporarily blocked, often by a blood clot.
What Are the Symptoms of a Ministroke (TIA)?
People who experience a TIA have symptoms that are similar to a clot-related (ischemic) stroke, but the episode doesn’t last as long. For example, a TIA may show up as unexplainable numbness on one side of the body that comes on suddenly and then goes away just as quickly.
If you experience stroke-like symptoms, get emergency help right away. Try to remember as much about the event as possible – including when it began. First responders and doctors use this information to help diagnose and treat the issue.
Can Mini-Strokes (TIAs) Be Prevented?
Strokes are largely preventable, and ministrokes (TIAs) can be prevented, too. As with many heart-health issues, the key is to reduce and manage your risks with heart-healthy lifestyle choices. For example, if you have high cholesterol or high blood pressure, or if you’re diabetic, your prescription medications may not be enough to prevent another clot-related (ischemic) stroke. Work with your doctor to help manage these or other health issues that could increase your risk, and talk to him or her about whether an aspirin regimen may be right for you.
LEARN MORE ABOUT STROKES
Warning Signs of a Stroke
From facial drooping to arm weakness, stroke warning signs can be easy to spot if you know what to look for.
Learn About the Most Common Type of Stroke
Read about when and how ischemic strokes can occur, and what causes them.
How Stroke Affects the Body
From recovery to lifestyle changes and challenges – find out what to expect after experiencing a stroke event.
You Know about F.A.S.T. Now Learn 5 Other Stroke Symptoms
Learn about stroke symptoms and remember that not every stroke survivor experiences the same signs and symptoms of a stroke.
Stroke Symptoms in Women
Stroke symptoms in women can be different than those found in men. For example, hiccups or numbness may be a possible stroke. Learn about the symptoms of stroke in women and help save a life.
What is a Ministroke and Can I Prevent One?
What is TIA or Ministroke? Learn about Transient Ischemic Attack, its symptoms, and how to prevent TIA with heart-healthy lifestyle choices.
Think FAST: How Well Do You Know the Warning Signs of a Stroke?
In the U.S. some kind of a stroke occurs every 40 seconds. Strokes are preventable and treatable. Find facts, tips and information on stroke prevention.
MANAGING RISK:
WHY PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS MAY NOT BE ENOUGH
If you take prescription medications for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, they may not be enough to protect your heart. Talk to your doctor about whether these medications are enough for you and whether adding an aspirin regimen can help further reduce the risk of another heart attack or clot-related (ischemic) stroke.
Aspirin is not appropriate for everyone, so be sure to talk to your doctor before you begin an aspirin regimen.
STROKE SURVIVORS HAVE A LOT TO LIVE FORWARD TO
PENNY S.
“It’s like you’re there, but it’s like you’re in an [out of] body experience.”
ANNA B.
“I didn’t think I was having a stroke. I knew everyone was acting really urgent. It was scary for me!”
TOM K.
“I had very good handwriting … and now it’s terrible, but that’s a small price to pay in this life and death situation.”
JOYCE A.
“I’m celebrating my 52nd birthday in two weeks, and … I’m thankful to be alive.”
TONI G.
“Education is key for me. I feel so good that I’m able to help people.”
Aspirin regimen products for recurrent stroke prevention
Aspirin is not appropriate for everyone, so be sure to talk to your doctor before you begin an aspirin regimen.
Bayer® Aspirin is available in a variety of doses and forms.
Learn more by clicking on a product below.
Use as directed.
1 This tool is intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide a medical diagnosis, medical advice, or medical treatment. Contact your healthcare provider after using the tool to discuss your heart health or if you have any health concerns.
2 Estimated risk of a cardiovascular event, specifically, the risk of a heart attack (myocardial infarction or MI) or stroke in the next five years.