Early Stroke Signs: Warning from Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

Stroke is a dangerous condition that can lead to death without warning. But some patients may experience a transient pre-stroke deficit, called transient ischemic attack (TIA), which, if managed promptly, can significantly reduce the risk of stroke and, consequently, permanent disability or death.

What is a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)?

A Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) is a brief episode with symptoms similar to a stroke. It is caused by a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain. TIAs typically last only a few minutes and do not cause long-term damage.

However, a TIA can be a warning. According to Dr. Sabrina Stefanizzi, a neurologist with over 20 years' experience in stroke treatment at the French Hospital in Hanoi, around one in three people who have had a TIA will have a stroke later on, and around half of these strokes will occur within a year of the TIA. A TIA can be both a warning of a future stroke and an opportunity to prevent one.

TIA signs to be aware of

The symptoms of a TIA are similar to the early signs of a stroke. These symptoms appear suddenly and may include:

• Severe, sudden headache that differs from usual headaches
• Weakness, numbness, or paralysis in the face, arm, or leg, typically on one side of the body
• Difficulty speaking or understanding others
• Sudden loss of vision
• Dizziness or loss of balance

TIA typically last only a few minutes, disappearing within an hour.

Some patients may experience more than one TIA, and their symptoms may be similar or differ depending on which part of the brain is affected. It is a threat syndrome requiring urgent care.

Causes and Prevention of TIA and stroke

According to Dr. Stefanizzi, the causes of transient ischemic attack are similar to those of ischemic stroke, the most common type of stroke. Atherosclerosis of the cerebral or cervical arteries is one of the most common.  It is caused by the accumulation of cholesterol-laden fatty deposits, known as plaque, in the arteries. When smaller arteries are affected, causing “lacunar infarcts”, the mechanism is a thickening of the artery due to high blood pressure.

Plaque can reduce blood flow in the arteries or lead to the formation of a blood clot. A blood clot that moves from another part of the body, mainly from the heart, cavities to an artery supplying the brain can also cause TIA.There are many risk factors for a TIA and stroke, divided into two groups: non-modifiable risk factors and modifiable risk factors.

Non-modifiable risk factors include family history, age, and certain conditions like sickle cell disease, where sickle-shaped red blood cells carry less oxygen and are more likely to get stuck in the artery walls, affecting blood flow to the brain.

Modifiable risk factors are those that can be controlled or treated. Having one or more of these risk factors does not mean you will necessarily have a stroke, but your risk increases if you have several of them. These risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease, sedentary lifestyle, diabetes, and being overweight.

The Importance of Early Recognition

One of the most crucial factors in treating a stroke is the early identification of symptoms and prompt action. Studies show that the first 3 to 4.5 hours from the onset of symptoms are a critical window for minimizing brain damage and improving recovery chances.

Dr. Stefanizzi adds, “Timely intervention is the key to minimizing brain damage and saving lives. Therefore, it’s essential to understand and recognize the early signs of TIA and stroke. Always listen to your body and don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if you notice any unusual signs.”

Dr. Sabrina Stefanizzi is a stroke specialist with over 20 years of experience working at renowned hospitals in France and is currently the coordinator of the Prevention Centre of Cardio-Vascular Diseases and a neurology expert at Hanoi French Hospital.

On April 12th, the Prevention Centre of Cardio-Vascular Diseases organized a workshop titled “Comprehensive Stroke Management,” with the participation of experts from France and Vietnam. The seminar aimed to raise public awareness and help patients take proactive measures to prevent serious conditions such as stroke.