some people call a transient ischemic attack (tia) a mini- stroke because the symptoms are like those of a stroke but do not last long. a tia happens when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or reduced often by a blood clot. after a short time blood flows again and the symptoms go away. with a stroke the blood flow stays blocked and the brain has permanent damage. a tia is a warning: it means you are likely to have a stroke in the future. if you think you are having a tia call. early treatment can help prevent a stroke. if you think you have had a tia but your symptoms have gone away you still need to call your doctor right away. webmd medical reference from healthwise this information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. © 1995-2011 healthwise incorporated. healthwise healthwise for every health decision and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise incorporated.
what is a transient ischemic attack (tia)?