You most likely have heard the acronym TIA, transient ischemic attack, otherwise identified as a mini-stroke. According to senior in home care services professionals, this type of stroke happens when a blood clot blocks the flow of blood to the brain. This form of stroke is often quick, temporary and in most cases, does not kill the brain tissue as a full blown stroke may do. Because these types of strokes are short-lived, too often older individuals may not recognize the seriousness of the episode and may assume it is just a ‘weird’ feeling.

Possible Symptoms of a TIA/Mini Stroke

Senior in home care services experts share that motor dysfunction is often one of the symptoms your mother or father may experience. In fact, after the episode, they may have a slight residual effect they may not notice but you may when you talk to them or watch them walk or move. This may be due to a weakness in one side of their body, known as hemiparesis.

Assistance for Your Parent

If your mother or father displays a weakness in movement or speech, it is advised that they are seen by their medical doctor. He or she may refer your parent to a neurologist for a complete observational work-up. Your mom or dad may have a speech disturbance that was caused by the mini-stroke when the blood clot occurred in the dominant brain hemisphere. Other temporary medical problems may occur as well. It may be necessary to identify them sooner rather than later.

CT and MRI SCANS

Your parent’s medical team most likely will recommend nuclear medicine scans that will provide a diagnosis to help prevent a stroke from developing. Often the TIA is a warning sign that something is malfunctioning.

A senior in home care services professional will help both you and your parent understand strokes and stroke prevention, specifically in regards to your mom or dad’s health history.