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Transient Ischemic Attack Discharge Instructions


About this topic


A transient ischemic attack is a TIA. Sometimes, it is called a mini stroke. A TIA happens when the flow of blood to a part of the brain stops for a short period of time. It comes and goes quickly. TIAs most often do not cause damage to the brain. But, if not treated right away, this health problem may lead to a real stroke. ‚  


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What care is needed at home?


  • Ask your doctor what you need to do when you go home. Make sure you ask questions if you do not understand what the doctor says. This way you will know what you need to do.
  • Take drugs as ordered by your doctor. Do not forget to take these drugs.
  • Learn to take your blood pressure and keep a record for your doctor.
  • If you have diabetes, make sure you record your blood sugar readings for your doctor.
  • If you are on aspirin or a blood thinner, watch for bruising and bleeding.

What follow-up care is needed?


Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. Have all blood tests done as ordered. ‚  

What drugs may be needed?


The doctor may order drugs to: ‚  
  • Lower blood pressure
  • Lower cholesterol
  • Control blood sugar if you have diabetes
  • Thin your blood and prevent clots

Will physical activity be limited?


Talk to your doctor about the right amount of activity for you. Ask your doctor about when it is safe for you to drive and when you may return to work ‚  

What changes to diet are needed?


Your doctor may tell you to eat a low fat and low salt diet. This means: ‚  
  • Eat whole grain foods and foods high in fiber.
  • Choose many different fruits and vegetables. Fresh or frozen is best.
  • Eat less solid fats like butter or margarine. Eat less fatty or processed foods.
  • Eat more low fat or lean meats like chicken, fish, or turkey. Eat less red meat.
  • Limit canned or prepackaged foods.
  • Stay away from fast foods as most are high in fat and salt.
  • Do not have more than 1 to 2 drinks of beer, wine, and mixed drinks (alcohol) each day.
  • Do not add salt to your food. Use seasoning and herbs for flavor.
  • If you need help, ask to see a dietitian.

What can be done to prevent this health problem?


  • Keep a healthy weight. Get help from your doctor if you need to lose weight.
  • Keep your blood cholesterol level under control.
  • Keep your blood pressure within a normal range.
  • Stop smoking. Ask your doctor for help quitting.
  • If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugars normal.
  • Exercise or do something active for 30 minutes per day 5 to 7 days per week.

When do I need to call the doctor?


Activate the emergency medical system right away if you have signs of stroke. Call 911 in the United States or Canada. The sooner treatment begins, the better your chances for recovery. Call for emergency help right away if you have: ‚  
  • Signs of stroke:
    • Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
    • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
    • Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
    • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
    • Sudden severe headache with no known cause

Call your doctor if your: ‚  
  • Blood pressure is high
  • Blood sugar is too high, even after taking your drugs

Teach Back: Helping You Understand


The Teach Back Method helps you understand the information we are giving you. The idea is simple. After talking with the staff, tell them in your own words what you were just told. This helps to make sure the staff has covered each thing clearly. It also helps to explain things that may have been a bit confusing. Before going home, make sure you are able to do these: ‚  
  • I can tell you about my condition.
  • I can tell you what changes I need to make with my diet or drugs.
  • I can tell you what signs of a stroke are and what I will do if I have them.

Where can I learn more?


American Heart Association ‚  
http://www.strokeassociation.org/STROKEORG/AboutStroke/TypesofStroke/TIA/TIA-Transient-Ischemic-Attack_UCM_310942_Article.jsp ‚  

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚  

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