| Disease |
TRANSIENT ISCHEMIC ATTACKS (T.I.A.) |
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| Quotation |
“A peculiar thing in medicine is that we never believe anything unless it can be demonstrated in animals” |
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| Definition |
Acute transient episodes of neurologic deficit, of sudden onset, and due to brain ischemia lasting usually <2 hours, but may last up to 24 hours |
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| Prognosis |
5% chance of a stroke on the side during the first month, and 10% within the first year. The risk increases with additional risk factors like diabetes and hypertension. Risk for myocardial infarction 2% in the first year. |
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| General Measures |
Strict control of medical risk factors like hypertension diabetes, hyperllipidemia, or cardiac disease.Cessation of smoking |
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| Advice to Patient |
The need for strickt adherence to drug regime prescribed. Avoid sudden movements of neck, or excessive flexion, or extension.Those on anticoagulants should not take any drug without informing attending physician, should report any bleeding, female patient is to inform doctor if she is pregnant or intending to become pregnant. |
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| Follow Up |
For those on oral anti-coagulants, frequent measurement of prothrombin time to maintain INR between 2-3Those on ticlopedine would need blood counts done every 2 weeks for the first 3 months. |
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| Prevention |
Good control of background medical disease like hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, cardiac disease. Cessation of smoking Avoidance of hypotension especially of elderly on therapy for hypertension. Avoid sudden movements of neck, or standing up suddenly.Of on anticoagulants, watch out for any bleeding. Do not take any new drug without informing doctor, take warfarin at night and get blood check in the morning/Avoid excess green vegetables. |
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| Reference From |
Website: www.postgradmed.com/issues/2000/05_00/flemming.html |
