Bengaluru: A middle-aged patient, who experienced sudden weakness on one side of the body, saw the symptoms disappear within 15 to 20 minutes and decided against seeking medical attention. A couple of days later, he suffered a major stroke, resulting in persistent weakness and requiring prolonged rehabilitation.The case highlights why doctors in Bengaluru warn against ignoring transient ischaemic attacks (TIAs), commonly known as mini-strokes, even when symptoms such as slurred speech, sudden weakness, numbness or temporary vision disturbances disappear within minutes. Though patients may feel normal once symptoms subside, a TIA can signal an increased risk of a subsequent stroke, making urgent medical evaluation crucial.Dr Chetan Kumar A, senior consultant, neurology, Sakra World Hospital, said, “The risk of a major stroke is highest soon after a TIA, particularly within the first day or two. Studies suggest about one in 10 people who have a TIA may suffer a stroke in the following months, with many occurring early.”Dr Chinmay Nagesh, senior consultant, stroke and neurovascular interventional radiology, Apollo Speciality Hospital, Jayanagar, said the risk of stroke within 90 days can be as high as 18% on average, with nearly half of these strokes occurring within the first two days.A TIA occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is temporarily interrupted. Symptoms may resolve completely, but the underlying cause, such as narrowing or blockage of blood vessels supplying the brain, may persist. Risk factors include high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, physical inactivity and heart rhythm disorders such as atrial fibrillation.Dr Amit Kulkarni, director of neurology and clinical lead, stroke services, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, said younger adults can also experience TIAs. He cited the case of a 25-year-old woman who had repeated episodes of weakness and numbness on the left side. Despite treatment, her symptoms continued, and MRI scans showed evidence of strokes.“Conditions such as antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APLA syndrome), arterial dissection, obstructive sleep apnoea and moyamoya disease can increase the risk of TIAs. Moyamoya is a rare disorder in which arteries supplying the brain progressively narrow or get blocked. A TIA in a younger person should not automatically be attributed to lifestyle factors,” he said.Dr Nagesh said migraine, seizures and inner-ear disorders can mimic TIA symptoms, making hospital evaluation essential.Doctors said treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include antiplatelet medication, cholesterol-lowering drugs, control of blood pressure and diabetes, or procedures to address significant arterial narrowing. “Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, eating balanced meals and controlling existing conditions can help reduce stroke risk. With long working hours and busy lifestyles, people often stop paying attention to their health, and this needs to change,” Dr Kumar said.
