What are the signs and symptoms of a transient ischemic attack?
Signs and symptoms of a TIA depend on the part of the brain affected. During a TIA, you may have numbness (loss of feeling), tingling, weakness, or paralysis (loss of movement). You may have trouble walking, swallowing, talking, or understanding. Your vision (sight) may be blurred or doubled. How is a transient ischemic attack diagnosed? You may have any of the following tests to diagnose a TIA: • CT scan: • This is also called a CAT scan. A special x-ray machine uses a computer to take pictures of your brain. It may be used to look at bones, muscles, brain tissue, and blood vessels. • You may be given dye before the pictures are taken. The dye is usually given in your IV. The dye may help your caregiver see the pictures better. People who are allergic to iodine or shellfish (lobster, crab, or shrimp) may be allergic to some dyes. Tell the caregiver if you are allergic to shellfish, or have other allergies or medical conditions. • MRI: This test is called magnetic resonance imaging. Du
