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TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack) is a stroke, sometimes referred to as a “mini-stroke.” It is precipitated by a blockage in the blood flow to a part of the brain. Transient means that it is short lived…the blockage is resolved and blood flow is recovered before perceivable permanent damage can occur. This usually occurs within one to three minutes. Commonly brain cells can only remain vital for 5-10 minutes without oxygen unless special antioxidants are released that may prolong that to a couple of hours. The blockage is usually caused by a clot that is traveling through the blood stream and gets lodged in an artery as that artery splits into progressively smaller ones on into capillaries. Clots of this nature (called emboli) can originate from any area of the body, particularly in areas in which the blood may pool and initiate the clotting process.
TIA’s should be viewed as a huge “wake-up call.” Though total recovery may occur, they may suggest an ongoing condition that could continue to form more clots that could break free into more emboli that could then block more critical areas with more permanent consequences.
Typical symptoms of these mini-strokes include weakness, numbness or paralysis in the face, arm or leg, most often on one side of the body (this identifies the area of the brain effected as the opposite side to that which is effected. It is common for the speech to get slurred and some mental faculties to falter. Blindness, dizziness and/or headaches are known to occur.
Risk factors are similar to those related to other life altering conditions. Family history may suggest a predisposition. Age and sex factor in a bit. Lifestyle considerations are always important. A person that smokes may be at risk ten years earlier than one who doesn’t. Obesity increases a person’s chances of stroke as does high blood pressure and a diet high in saturated fats or processed foods.
As is true with any condition of this concern, it is better to take a preventative stance than to be faced with the potential difficulties of recovery. Keeping the blood flowing smoothly is paramount. “Thinning” the blood can be accomplished in many ways. Certainly aspirin is a common consideration. A diet rich in unsaturated fats such as omega 3 oils and devoid of the more problematic saturated fats and fried foods and artificial fats certainly provides a more healthful approach than simple aspirin.
It’s easy to see how the 4,000 various chemicals in commercial cigarettes can contribute to clot formation. A routine program of exercise helps one process in the good and process out the bad in ingested substances. Basic stress management can relax the blood vessels so that they can be wide enough to allow a clot to travel to less critical areas.
Recovery from TIA’s should not dispel the seriousness of the condition. These provide a warning sign to take measures to avoid more permanent consequences.
In the event of more permanent consequences consider recovery enhancement with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) that will drive oxygen directly into the damaged cells with results occurring even years after a stroke.
Dr. Miles practices Naturopathic Medicine at the Catalina Clinic of Integrative Health along with other Holistic practitioners in Catalina, Arizona.
Dr. Michael Miles is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor. After receiving his bachelor’s degree in psychology and pre-med, he completed his studies in medicine at the highly regarded Bastyr University in Seattle, Washington. Dr. Miles offers a holistic, integrative general practice, which focuses on treating chronic and degenerative diseases, digestive disorders and hormonal imbalances, as well as allergies and infections of all kinds. He holds a special interest in chelation therapy used in the treatment of cardiovascular disease. He is also very active in cancer research. He prefers non-toxic treatment techniques that include botanical medicine, clinical nutrition and homeopathy, but will offer pharmaceutical remedies when appropriate. You will find Dr. Miles to be compassionate, sincere and a strong advocate for your health. He is opening a new office in Catalina in June of 2014 which will feature hyperbaric oxygen therapy in addition to his normal services. www.catalinaclinic.com
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