A new study revealed that nearly 1 in 3 Americans experienced a TIA or mini stroke symptom.
According to a new study by the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association (AHA/ASA), nearly 1 in 3 Americans has experienced a symptom consistent with a TIA. This is a transient ischemic attack or warning stroke. The AHA/ASA found that those who suffered a warning or mini-stroke were more likely to take medication, rest, or simply wait rather than calling 911.
The study was part of the American Stroke Association’s ‘Together to End Stroke’ campaign. This was designed to educate Americans on the warning signs of a stroke. The survey found that 1 in 3 people living in the US has experienced at least one sign of a mini-stroke. TIAs are provoked by a temporary blockage in the brain. Usually, it does not cause permanent damage. But it still may indicate that a full stroke is coming.
Alarming Number of TIA Sheds Light on Cardiovascular Dangers
As alarming as the prevalence rate is the fact that most people experiencing a mini-stroke symptom failed to seek emergency treatment. This is according to the AHA/ASA or the country’s largest voluntary health organization fighting cardiovascular disease.
TIA symptoms include a sudden confusion and difficulty speaking. Or a weakness or numbness of the leg, arm or face. Also an unexplained and sudden headache or trouble seeing. Difficulties in walking or dizziness are also a potential warning sign.
According to Mitch Elkind, M.D., chair of the American Stroke Association: “Ignoring any stroke sign could be a deadly mistake, […] call 911 right away to improve chances of an accurate diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.”
About 2.3% or 5 million of the adults in the US have had a diagnosed TIA. But this study suggests the prevalence is probably much higher. TIAs precede nearly 15% of strokes. Previous research in the New England Journal of Medicine indicates the risk of a full-blown stroke within three months of a mini-stroke is 12 to 20%.
The AHA/ASA recommends treatment as soon as possible following signs of a mini-stroke. In a scientific statement published in the science journal Stroke, the AHA/ASA advises patients who have had a suspected mini-stroke to seek medical attention. They should receive a neuroimaging evaluation within 24 hours. A non-invasive imaging of the cervical and intracranial vessels for accurate diagnosis and intervention would also be needed.While the study doesn’t prove the higher-than-anticipated prevalence of mini-strokes in the United States, it does show that most Americans seem to ignore the signs and dangers of TIAs. This report may help shed light on the risks of mini-strokes. It may also encourage Americans to take these symptoms more seriously.
