Fat Loss 4 Idiots Secret

Friday, August 21, 2009

What are the Signs and Symptoms of a Mini Stroke

By Barb Hicks

TIA, also known as a mini stroke, occurs when there has been temporary blockage of blood flow in the brain due to a thrombus. In a TIA, the body releases its own small amount of tPA and quickly dissolves the clot. This accounts for the temporary symptoms that incur and cause no damage to brain tissues. The TIA is a warning sign of an impending stoke, and medical help should be sought immediately. Mini strokes happen only in ischemic episodes. Ischemic and hemorrhagic are complete opposites of each other but have the same symptoms and inclinations.

An ischemic event occurs when the clot totally occludes an artery, preventing blood flow. This causes ischemia leading to cell death, and loss of functionality of the extremities, including the face.

The formation of these blood clots can also be caused by atrial fibrillation, previous heart attack, heart valve diseases, some STDs, cardiovascular disease and Cerebrovascular disease.

Narrowing of the arteries due to plaque buildup, which leads to clots forming, is a common factor in ischemic events. Cells and other debris stick to cracks in the plaque.

The body protects itself from injury by forming clots. A clot is formed in order to stop constant bleeding. If the bleeding is not stopped a whole host of other, more serious complications can occur.

In order to dissolve a clot, the body will release an enzyme called plasmin to dissolve it. After this, phagocytes or white cells will come along and engulf the remaining debris, carrying it away.

Symptoms of a mini stroke include loss of balance, inability to speak and sudden headache. These symptoms are short lived and leave behind no permanent brain damage. If someone experiences these symptoms, it is highly advisable that they seek immediate medical assistance as these are small warning signs that a major stroke is about to occur. Medical professionals will then try to restore blood flow to the brain in order to prevent the onset of a major stroke.

There is a time element with stroke. In order for doctors to use certain medications, treatment must begin within 3 hours from when symptoms started. If symptoms are not recognized, then extensive damage could result. This is why it is important to know the signs and symptoms to avoid a delay in treatment.

Mini strokes are sudden and carry no warning signs as they are warning signs within themselves for an ischemic episode. It is highly common for someone who has experienced a mini stroke to undergo a major stroke the following year. Visiting your medical professional will allow them to weigh your risk factors and perform tests to ensure a proper course of treatment for your situation. - 17274

About the Author:

0 Comments:

Post a Comment

Subscribe to Post Comments [Atom]

<< Home