Diagnosing Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medial history. A physical exam will be done. Particular attention will be paid to your blood pressure and nervous system. A primary goal will be to determine your stroke risk.

Tests may include:

• Blood tests-such as a complete blood count, blood sugar (glucose), cholesterol and other fat levels, clotting factors, and a check of other elements in the blood
• Electrocardiogram (EKG)-to measure heart rhythm (which would be irregular in, for example, atrial fibrillation) and check for other signs of heart disease
• Doppler ultrasound -a test that uses sound waves to help determine if there is compromised blood flow in the arteries supplying the brain
• Echocardiogram -another ultrasound test to look for blood clots and valve abnormalities within the heart
• CT scan of the head -a type of x-ray that uses a computer to create images of structures inside the head; in this case, to look for evidence of bleeding or other damage to the brain
• MRI scan of the head -a test that uses powerful magnetic radiowaves to create images of structures inside the head; in this case, to look for evidence of bleeding or other damage to the brain
• Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) -generally performed prior to carotid artery surgery to determine how much the artery has narrowed
• Arteriogram -a test in which contrast dye is injected into selected arteries and x-ray images are produced to precisely locate the blockage and to determine its extent
• Electroencephalogram (EEG) -a test that can detect the presence of seizures by measuring brain waves (used only if a seizure is suspected)