Transient cerebral encomia (also called a TIA or mini-stroke) is a temporary loss of brain function caused by a clot or blockage in an artery that supplies blood to the brain. TIAs are often called “mini-strokes” because they can cause symptoms that are similar to a stroke, but they last for a shorter period of time (usually less than 5 minutes).
The symptoms of a TIA can vary depending on the part of the brain that is affected. Some common symptoms include:
- Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- Vision problems
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Confusion
- Sudden severe headache with no known cause
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. TIAs are a warning sign that you may be at risk for a stroke. Treatment for a TIA may include medications to prevent blood clots and lifestyle changes to reduce your risk of stroke.
There are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of having a TIA or stroke. These include:
- Controlling your blood pressure
- Controlling your cholesterol
- Quitting smoking
- Eating a healthy diet
- Exercising regularly
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Limiting alcohol intake
- Managing stress
If you have any risk factors for TIA or stroke, it is important to talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk.