Stroke & Transient Ischemic Attack

Stroke & Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) Diagnosis & Treatment at Mir Neurology

What is a Stroke?

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted or reduced due to a blocked artery, known as an ischemic stroke, or a ruptured blood vessel, known as a hemorrhagic stroke. When the brain lacks oxygen and nutrients, brain cells die, which leads to permanent brain damage, speech difficulties, movement problems, and other neurological impairments.

At Mir Neurology, experienced neurologists provide rapid stroke diagnosis, emergency stroke care, and comprehensive stroke treatment. Early intervention can reduce brain injury and improve recovery. Seek immediate medical care if you notice any stroke warning signs.

What is a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)?

A Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), often called a mini-stroke, results from a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain. TIA symptoms resemble stroke symptoms but resolve within minutes to hours without lasting damage. A TIA signals a high risk of future stroke and requires urgent medical evaluation and treatment.

Symptoms of Stroke & TIA

Recognizing the syst stroke and TIA symptoms allows faster treatment and better outcomes. Common signs include:

1. Sudden Numbness or Weakness

Facial drooping, arm weakness, or leg weakness, often affecting one side.
Difficulty smiling or lifting both arms.

2. Speech and comprehension problems

Slurred speech
Difficulty understanding or producing speech.

3. Vision changes

Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes.
Blurred vision or double vision.

4. Balance and coordination issues

Dizziness, loss of balance
Difficulty walking

5. Severe headache

A sudden, severe headache with no known cause.
In the case of a TIA, symptoms come and go quickly and typically resolve within minutes to a few hours. TIA symptoms resolve fully but still require emergency care.

Risk Factors for Stroke & TIA

Several medical conditions and lifestyle factors increase stroke risk:

1. Physical Examination

A detailed physical and neurological examination is conducted to assess the extent of the injury. The exam includes evaluating:

High blood pressure (hypertension)
Diabetes
High cholesterol
Heart disease or arrhythmias (especially atrial fibrillation)
Smoking
Obesity
Family history of stroke
Sedentary lifestyle
Previous stroke or TIA
Excessive alcohol consumption
Age (the risk increases with age)

Stroke & TIA Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis supports effective treatment. Mir Neurology uses advanced diagnostic testing and neurological evaluation, including:

1. Neurological Examination

Assessment of speech.
Motor function, reflexes, and coordination.

2. Brain Imaging

CT scan (computed tomography) – Helps identify brain damage caused by a stroke and can detect bleeding in the brain.
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) – Provides detailed images of the brain and can help detect areas of ischemia (reduced blood flow) or damage from a previous stroke.

3. Vascular testing

Carotid ultrasound to identify plaque buildup or carotid artery narrowing.

4. Laboratory testing

Blood tests to assess cholesterol levels, clotting disorders, and metabolic causes.

5. Cardiac evaluation

An electrocardiogram (ECG) to detect irregular heart rhythms linked to stroke risk.

Stroke Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type of stroke, severity, and time since symptom onset. The primary goal focuses on restoring blood flow, preventing complications, and preserving brain function.

1. Ischemic Stroke Treatment

Clot-busting drugs (Thrombolytics) – Administered intravenously to dissolve blood clots and restore blood flow to the brain. The sooner this is done, the better the outcome.
Mechanical Thrombectomy – A minimally invasive procedure to remove large blood clots from blocked arteries in the brain.
Antiplatelet drugs – Used to prevent new blood clots from forming.

2. Hemorrhagic Stroke Treatment

Surgery – In some cases, surgery may be needed to repair ruptured blood vessels or remove blood clots.
Blood pressure management – Strict control of blood pressure to reduce further bleeding.

3. Stroke rehabilitation

Physical therapy to restore strength and mobility.
Speech therapy to improve communication and swallowing.
Occupational therapy to support daily activities.

TIA Treatment and Stroke Prevention

TIA treatment focuses on preventing a future stroke through targeted medical care and lifestyle changes:

Preventing Concussion & TBI

Antiplatelet therapy such as aspirin
Blood pressure control
Cholesterol-lowering medications
Heart rhythm management
Smoking cessation
Regular physical activity
Heart-healthy nutrition

Stroke and TIA Prevention

Preventing stroke involves addressing the underlying risk factors and making lifestyle changes. Steps to reduce stroke risk include:

A healthy diet is low in salt and saturated fat.
Routine exercise to support heart and brain health.
Management of chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.
Limiting alcohol intake.
Avoiding tobacco use.
At Mir Neurology, we are committed to helping you manage your stroke risk and provide immediate care when a stroke or TIA occurs. If you or someone you know is experiencing stroke symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Living After Stroke

Life after a stroke involves physical, emotional, and cognitive recovery. With structured stroke rehabilitation programs and expert neurological care, many individuals regain independence and improve their quality of life. MIR Neurology specialists work closely with patients and families to design personalized recovery plans focused on long-term stability and function.

If you or a loved one has had a stroke or TIA, we are here to provide ongoing support and treatment to help you achieve the best possible recovery.

Get Expert Help

Healthcare professional providing expert consultation and treatment for neurological and neuromuscular disorders.

If you or a loved one is experiencing memory loss or cognitive decline, early diagnosis is key to effective management. Consult with our neurology specialists for personalized assessment and care plans.

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Our Locations

Main Office - Cumberland, United States

Our main office is located in Cumberland, United States. Our doctors have office hours at additional locations in the Hagerstown area to better serve our patients.

924 Seton Dr Suite C, Cumberland, MD 21502, United States.

(301) -797-7600