Transient Ischemic Attacks
A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is temporary interruption of blood flow to part of the brain, usually lasting no more than 24 hours.
The cause is arteriosclerosis or spasm of the blood vessels. The symptoms can be inability to write or speak, sensations of pain or numbness, and loss of muscle control on one side of the body.
Amnesia, inability to recognize familiar things, loss of balance, and a fall with or without a blackout are common.
The treatment depends on how many TIAs have occurred and which blood vessels are involved. Drugs that inhibit the formation of clots are prescribed. Surgical bypass of the obstructed vessels may be performed.
Reference :
Farrell J : Nursing Care of the Older Person, J.B. Lippincott Company, Philadelphia, 1990.
