Best Transient Ischemic Attack Doctors in Visakhapatnam

A Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) is often referred to as a mini-stroke. It is a brief interruption in the supply of blood to the brain. This usually results from either a clot or plaque buildup in the arteries. However, unlike a full stroke, these symptoms are temporary and often last only for a few minutes up to 24 hours. Specialists in stroke or neurologists have identified several factors that increase susceptibility to TIAs.

Apollo Hospital in Vizag houses some of the best doctors well versed in treating TIA in India. They possess the expertise to manage these critical situations efficiently and effectively.

Types/Stages of TIA

TIAs vary based on their pathophysiological mechanisms, similar to those observed in ischemic strokes, which include:

• Large Artery Atherothrombosis: This often results from a blood clot that forms in large arteries supplying the brain.

• Cardiac Embolism: This occurs when a clot forms in the heart and then travels to the brain.

• Small Vessel (lacunar) Ischemic Diseases: This refers to damages occurring in the tiny blood vessels within the brain.

• Cryptogenic: These are TIAs whose causes remain unknown after extensive evaluation.

Symptoms of TIA

People experiencing a TIA might present with several symptoms, including:

• Weakness, numbness or paralysis often affects one side of the body.

• Difficulty speaking or understanding spoken language.

• Visual disturbances such as blindness in one or both eyes or double vision.

• Loss of balance or sudden dizziness.

• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)

• Vertigo

• Severe headache.

• Nausea or vomiting

Tests to Diagnose TIA

At Apollo Hospitals in Vizag, doctors who treat transient ischemic attack employ various diagnostic tests to confirm a TIA which include:

• Physical Examination: This involves assessing vital signs and neurological function.

• Blood tests: These tests are conducted to check for clotting factors and other other markers of stroke risk.

• Imaging Tests: CT scans and MRIs are used to get detailed images of the brain and blood vessels..

• Echocardiogram: An ultrasound scan of the heart is performed to identify clot sources by evaluating the heart's structure and function

• Carotid Ultrasound: This is crucial to visualise the carotid arteries and any possible plaque buildup.

Treatment or Surgery Options for TIA at Apollo Hospitals, Vizag

The Doctors specialising in transient ischemic attack at Apollo Hospitals, Vizag, design a treatment plan that comprises:

• Medication Therapy: This involves antiplatelet drugs like aspirin or clopidogrel, anticoagulants like warfarin to reduce the risk of blood clots and prevent future strokes, and medications for controlling hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes.

• Catheter-based Procedures: Procedures like carotid angioplasty and stenting can be used to open blocked arteries when medication alone is insufficient.

• Surgery: This includes procedures such as a carotid endarterectomy, involving removing plaque from the carotid arteries in the neck to improve blood flow to the brain.

• Closing Heart Defects: In some cases, heart defects like patent foramen ovale may need to be closed to reduce stroke risk.

• Continuous Monitoring: Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers are essential to monitor the condition and adjust treatment as necessary.

At Apollo Hospitals, Vizag, the best doctors specialising in TIA treatment create a specific treatment plan. Their therapeutic regimen is based on the underlying cause of the TIA and the individual's health profile.