Transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), also known as ministrokes, are often downplayed or ignored by patients due to their fleeting symptoms. However, a new study published in JAMA Neurology has found that TIAs can lead to significant cognitive decline over time, comparable to stroke survivors. Researchers tracked over 30,000 adults and discovered that TIA survivors experience a steady decline in cognitive function, which may increase the risk of dementia later in life.
According to experts, ignoring symptoms or delaying treatment can be risky, as the chance of a full stroke within 90 days is between 5% to 20%, with most of this risk occurring within the first two days. “These events are serious, acute, and dangerous,” warns Dr. Clay Johnston, a neurologist at Harbor Health.
To minimize the risk, healthcare professionals recommend using the “BE FAST” checklist: balance, eyesight, face, arms, speech, and time. Patients are urged to seek immediate medical attention if they experience any symptoms, rather than waiting until the issue resolves on its own.
The study’s findings highlight the importance of taking TIA symptoms seriously and seeking prompt treatment. Experts argue that TIAs should be renamed “minor ischemic strokes” to encourage faster responses or simply include the word “stroke” in their description.
Source: https://www.newser.com/story/369384/warning-dont-pooh-pooh-that-ministroke.html