Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

Stroke can turn an ordinary moment into a loss of speech, movement, vision, or independence. Rapid recognition can preserve brain function; identifying the cause then shapes how to prevent the next event. A TIA deserves the same urgency, even when the patient feels back to normal.

Ischemic stroke results from blocked blood flow; hemorrhagic stroke results from bleeding within or around the brain. TIA is transient focal ischemic dysfunction without acute infarction. Symptoms that resolve but leave an acute infarct represent ischemic stroke, not TIA.

• Recognize and act: Sudden focal symptoms require emergency assessment. Record last known well and activate the stroke pathway; symptom improvement is not reassurance.
• Match treatment to the cause: Reperfusion, antiplatelets, anticoagulation, and procedures have different roles. The mechanism matters as much as the initial deficit.
• Plan for life after stroke: Prevention and recovery work together. Address function, mood, cognition, caregiver support, and access alongside vascular risk.