As in the case with strokes, TIAs can be caused by intrinsic vessel disease (narrowing), originate remotely as occurs with an embolus, or inadequate blood flow. The same level of care is required for TIA patients as is for stroke patients. [18]
Patients with certain risk factors are more likely to suffer a stroke after having a TIA. About 1/3 of people who have a TIA go on to have a severe stroke within a year. [56]
The following are felt to be significant risk factors (ABCD2 scoring used to predict the risk of early stroke after a TIA):
- Age
- Blood pressure elevation when first assessed after TIA (systolic ≥140 mmHg or diastolic ≥90 mmHg)
- Clinical features (unilateral weakness; isolated speech disturbance)
- Duration of TIA symptoms
- Diabetes [57]
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