Treatment:

The goal is to prevent a stroke.

If you have had a TIA within the last 48 hours, you will likely be admitted to the hospital so that doctors can search for the cause and observe you.

High blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and blood disorders should be treated as needed.

You may receive blood thinners, such as aspirin, to reduce blood clotting. Other options include dipyridamole, clopidogrel, Aggrenox or heparin, Coumadin, or similar medications. You may be treated for a long period of time.

Some people who have clogged neck arteries may need surgery (carotid endarterectomy).

Expectations (prognosis):

TIAs do not cause lasting damage to the brain.

However, they are a warning sign that you may have a true stroke someday. More than 10% of people who have a TIA will have a stroke within 3 months. Half of these strokes happen during the 48 hours after a TIA. The stroke may occur that same day or at a later time. Some people have only a single episode, and some have more than one episode.

You can reduce your chances of a future stroke by following-up with your health care provider to manage your risk factors.

Calling your health care provider:

A TIA is a medical emergency. Call 911 or another local emergency number right away. Do not ignore symptoms just because they go away. They may be a warning of a future stroke.