What is a transient ischemic attack (TIA)?
A common cause of short-term vision loss is known as a transient ischemic attack. It is more commonly known as a TIA, or a mini-stroke and tends to occur most often in seniors. A TIA may only last a matter of minutes but it should not be ignored since roughly 15% of patients who survive their first TIA or mini-stroke will experience another one within one year.
What increases the chance of a TIA?
Factors that increase the chance of ischemic attacks are:
- high blood pressure,
- high cholesterol,
- smoking,
- IV drug use,
- cocaine use,
- excessive alcohol,
- use of oral contraceptives and
- lack of exercise causing obesity.
What are the symptoms of TIA?
A TIA is caused by lowered blood flow to the brain or eyes for a short period of time due to a small blood clot.
Symptoms of a TIA may include one or more of the following:
- painless loss of vision of one or both eyes,
- weakness and tingling on one side of the body,
- difficulty speaking,
- or vertigo (dizziness).
When the blood flow returns, usually in a matter of minutes, the symptoms go away. A TIA does not often last for more than 24 hours. With a stroke, the blood flow does not return which leads to permanent damage.
What are the treatments for TIA?
Patients suffering from a TIA need to see a doctor as soon as possible, who can order tests. If you experience a loss of vision, your doctor of optometry can perform an exam to rule out any other possible causes of vision loss.
Initial treatment of a transient ischemic attack usually involves taking blood thinners prescribed by a doctor. The long-term treatment of a TIA depends on the cause of the attack.