Main content Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

    Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)



    Treatment Overview

    Getting help for a TIA

    If you have symptoms of a TIA, get medical help right away.

    If you had symptoms of a TIA but you feel better now, you still need to see a doctor right away. A TIA is a sign that a stroke may soon follow. Prompt medical treatment may prevent a stroke.

    Treatment for a TIA

    If you've had a transient ischemic attack (TIA), you may need further testing and treatment after you've been checked by your doctor. If you have a high risk of Reference stroke Opens New Window, you may have to stay in the hospital for treatment.

    Your treatment for a TIA may include taking medicines to prevent a stroke or having surgery to reopen narrow arteries.

    Medicines may include aspirin, clopidogrel, dipyridamole with aspirin, or warfarin.

    If your Reference carotid arteries Opens New Window are significantly blocked, you may need surgery to reopen the narrowed arteries (carotid endarterectomy).

    Preventing another TIA or stroke

    Your treatment will also focus on preventing another TIA or stroke. This may include:

    • Reference Reducing high blood pressure, the most common risk factor for stroke, by making changes to your diet and taking medicines that lower blood pressure.
    • Taking aspirin or another antiplatelet medicine to prevent strokes.
    • Controlling diabetes. Your doctor will advise that you try to keep your blood sugar levels in a target range. To do this, you may need to take oral medicines or insulin. Eating a healthy diet and getting plenty of exercise will also help.
    • Getting a flu shot every year to help you avoid getting sick from the flu.

    You may also need to make lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, eating heart-healthy foods, and being more active.




    By: Reference Healthwise Staff Last Revised: Reference February 7, 2012
    Medical Review: Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
    Reference Richard D. Zorowitz, MD - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation


    This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.


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