Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) - Topic Overview

Your doctor will also check to see if something else is causing your symptoms.

How is a TIA treated?

Your doctor will start you on medicines to help prevent a stroke. You may need to take several medicines.

If tests show that the blood vessels (carotid arteries) in your neck are too narrow, you may need surgery to open them up (carotid endarterectomy). This can help prevent blood clots that block blood flow to your brain.

Another type of surgery is carotid artery stenting. During this surgery, the doctor puts a small tube called a stent inside your carotid artery. This helps keep the artery open. Carotid artery stenting is not as common as endarterectomy.

How can you prevent another TIA or stroke?

After you have had a TIA, you are at risk for having another TIA or a stroke. But you can make some important lifestyle changes that can reduce your risk of stroke and improve your overall health.

Treat any health problems you have

• Manage high blood pressure or high cholesterol by working with your doctor.
• Manage diabetes. Keep your blood sugar levels within a target range.
• If your doctor recommends that you take aspirin or a blood thinner, take it. This can help prevent a stroke.
• Take your medicine exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.

Adopt a healthy lifestyle

• Don't smoke or allow others to smoke around you.
• Limit alcohol to 2 drinks a day for men and 1 drink a day for women.
• Stay at a healthy weight. Being overweight makes it more likely that you will develop high blood pressure, heart problems, and diabetes. These conditions make a stroke more likely.
• Do activities that raise your heart rate. Get at least 30 minutes of exercise on most days of the week. Walking is a good choice. You also may want to do other activities, such as running, swimming, cycling, or playing tennis or team sports.
• Eat a balanced diet that is low in cholesterol, saturated fats, and salt. These foods can make hardening of the arteries worse. Eat more fruits and vegetables. Eat fish at least once a month.

Frequently Asked Questions