What to do after a mini stroke? | Lone Star Neurology

23/03/2023 Medically reviewed by Sandeep Dhanyamraju

If you experienced a mini stroke, it’s essential to take immediate action. A mini stroke, also known as a TIA. It is a serious warning sign that a full stroke could occur. The symptoms may be temporary. But it’s crucial to seek medical attention right away to prevent further damage to the brain.

In this article, we’ll discuss what to do after a mini stroke. We’ll cover the steps to take during the initial phase. It is also includes seeking medical help, getting a diagnosis, and receiving treatment. We’ll also delve into the recovery process and life after a mini stroke.

Dealing with a mini stroke can be overwhelming. But taking the right steps can make you understand what to expect after a mini stroke. So read on and understand about preventing a full stroke from occurring. You will find the necessary actions to take after a mini stroke. In such a way, you can ensure the best possible outcome and reduce your risk of future strokes.

Symptoms after a mini stroke

It is vital to recognize the symptoms of a mini-stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). Cause it can significantly reduce the risk of a full-blown stroke in the future. The following is a list of common symptoms of a mini-stroke:

Sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg, usually on one side of the body.
Difficulty speaking or slurred speech.
Sudden and severe headache without any known cause.
Dizziness, loss of balance, or coordination.
Blurred vision or sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes.
Confusion or difficulty understanding what others are saying.
Memory loss or sudden forgetfulness.

The symptoms of a mini-stroke can last for a few minutes to several hours. They usually disappear without any intervention. So all you need to do after a mini stroke is seek medical attention immediately. Any of the above symptoms can be indicative of an impending stroke.

Ignoring these symptoms of a mini-stroke is not recommended. They are often an indication of an underlying medical condition. It needs to be addressed. It is also vital to note that while a mini-stroke may not cause permanent damage, it can increase the risk of a major stroke in the future.

Therefore, anyone who experiences any of the above symptoms after a mini stroke should seek immediate medical attention. The individual should be assessed by a medical professional. If a mini-stroke is diagnosed, appropriate treatment should be provided. Also, lifestyle changes may be recommended to reduce the risk of a future stroke. It is all crucial in reducing the risk of long-term complications.

What to expect after a mini stroke in a hospital?

When healthcare professionals admit a patient to the hospital after a mini-stroke, they will take several steps to ensure the patient’s safety and recovery. Here are some of the things you can expect:

Immediate evaluation. Once admitted, healthcare professionals will thoroughly evaluate the patient’s symptoms. They will determine the extent of the stroke and the appropriate course of treatment.
Diagnostic tests. The healthcare team will perform various diagnostic tests to diagnose the cause and location of the stroke. They involve CT scans, MRIs, and blood tests.
Medication. It may help prevent further strokes or treat underlying conditions. For example, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes. But it’s all depends on the type of stroke and the patient’s overall health.
Monitoring. The healthcare team will closely monitor patients in the hospital. It will ensure that their blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels remain stable. That can help to figure out what to do with patients after a mini stroke. This may involve continuous monitoring with an ECG machine or telemetry.
Rehabilitation. The healthcare team will initiate a rehabilitation program. It will help the patient regain lost skills and functions. This may involve physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy.
Lifestyle changes. Healthcare professionals will educate patients on lifestyle changes. They can help reduce their risk of future strokes. For example, such as quitting smoking, losing weight, and exercising regularly.

The recovery process after a mini stroke can vary widely. It depends on the severity of the stroke, the patient’s overall health, and other factors. Close collaboration between healthcare professionals and the patient is essential for the best possible outcomes.

Life after a mini stroke: How to avoid a repeat incident?

Life after a mini stroke can be challenging, and patients must take the necessary steps to prevent a repeat incident. As a medical professional, it’s important to emphasize that mini strokes can be a warning sign of a more severe stroke in the future. Therefore, taking preventive measures to reduce the risk of a repeat incident is critical. Here are some tips that can help:

Adopt a healthy lifestyle. Leading a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of a repeat incident. Patients should aim to eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly. They need to avoid unhealthy habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Take medication as prescribed. Patients who have suffered a mini stroke are often prescribed medication to manage their blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other underlying conditions. It’s crucial to take medication as prescribed. Life after a mini stroke must involve attending regular follow-up appointments with healthcare providers.
Attend rehabilitation programs. Rehabilitation programs can help patients regain their strength, mobility, and independence. Patients should attend rehabilitation programs as recommended by their healthcare provider.
Manage stress. Stress can be a significant risk factor for stroke. Patients should take the necessary steps to manage stress levels. This can include practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or tai chi.
Stay informed. Patients should stay informed about the warning signs of a stroke. They also need to seek medical attention immediately if they experience any symptoms.

Preventing a repeat incident requires a combination of these measures. Healthcare providers need to work closely with patients. They will develop a personalized prevention plan considering their needs and risk factors.

Conclusion

A mini stroke, also known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA), can be a serious warning sign. You may be at risk of a more severe stroke. It is essential to find immediate medical attention. Especially if you still experience any of the symptoms after a mini stroke. After receiving medical treatment, taking steps to prevent a repeat incident is essential. This includes making lifestyle changes. For example, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking. Following your doctor’s recommendations about medication and regular check-ups is also crucial. By taking these measures, you can reduce your risk of having a more severe stroke. You will improve your overall health and well-being. Remember, prevention is key. So it is never too late to make positive changes to protect your health.

FAQ

What to avoid after having a mini stroke?

After having a mini-stroke, it’s important to avoid smoking, alcohol consumption. It is also bad to have high cholesterol and high blood pressure. These risk factors for stroke to provide further incidents.

Can you go back to normal after a mini stroke?

Many people can fully recover from a mini-stroke and resume their normal activities. But it depends on the severity and location of the stroke. Any underlying health conditions can influence life after a mini stroke.

What are the after-effects of having a mini-stroke?

After-effects of a mini-stroke may include:

weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg
ifficulty speaking or understanding language
memory problems
changes in vision

Some people may experience depression, anxiety, or emotional changes after a stroke.

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Just such an amazing staff that makes you feel like part of their family. I’ve been going there for over 5 years now... and each visit I get the very best care and treatments that I have ever received in the 20+ years that I’ve been dealing with severe debilitating migraines. Since i started seeing them the number of my migraines has dropped from 15-20 a month to 2-3 every 3 month. I highly recommend them …they will change your life!read more

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22:20 19 May 22

Dr. Askari was very kind and explained everything so I could understand. The other staff were nice as well. I would... have gave 5 stars but I was a little taken aback when I checked in and had to pay 600.00 upfront. I think that should have been discussed in a appointment confirmation call or email just so I could have been prepared.read more

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I love the office staff they are friendly and very helpful. Dr. JODIE is very caring and understanding to your needs... and wants to help you. I will go back. would recommend Dr. Dr. Jodie to other Patients in a heart beat. The team works well together.read more

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19:40 02 Apr 22

I was obviously stressed, needing to see a neurologist. The staff was so patient and Dr. Ansari was so kind. At one... point he told me to relax, we have time, when I was relaying my history of my condition. That helped ease my stress. I have seen 3 other neurologists and he was the only one who performed any assessment tests on my cognitive and physical skills. At one point I couldn't complete two assessments and got upset and cried. I was told, it's OK. That's why you're here. I was truly impressed, and super pleased with the whole experience!read more

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15:05 01 Apr 22

I've been coming here for about 5 years. The staff are ALWAYS friendly and knowledgeable. The Doctors are the absolute... best!! Jodie Moore is always in such a great mood which is a plus when you are already stressed. Highly recommendedread more

Monica Del Bosque

14:13 25 Mar 22

Since my first post my thoughts have changed here. It's unfortunate. My doctor and PA were great, but the office staff... is horrible. They never call you back when they say they will, they misinform you, they cause you too much stress wondering what's going on, they don't keep you posted. They never answer the phone. At this point I've left four messages in the last week, and I have sent three messages. Twice from their portal and one direct email. No response. My appointment is on Monday morning at 8:30am, no confirmation on my insurance and what's going on. What the heck is going on, this is ridiculous!I've given up... the stress her office staff has put me through is just not worth it. You can do so much better, please clean house, either change out your office staff, or find a way for them to be more efficient please. You have to do something. This is not how you want to run your practice. It leaves a very bad impression on your business.read more

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23:32 23 Mar 22

I was actually pleasantly surprised with this visit! It took me a long time to get the appointment scheduled because no... one answers your phones EVER! After a month, I finally got in, and your staff was warm, friendly, and I was totally impressed! I feel like you will take care of my needs!read more

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16:28 16 Mar 22

It was a nice visit. Happy staff doing all they can do to comfort the patients in a very calming environment. You ask... me they are earned a big gold star on the fridge. My only complaint they didn't give me any cookies.read more

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16:10 10 Feb 22

Had very positive appointments with Jodie and Dr. Sheth for my migraine care. Jodie was so fast with the injections and... has so much valuable info. I started to feel light headed during checkout and the staff was SO helpful—giving me a chair, water, and taking me into a private room until I felt better. Highly recommend this practice for migraine patients, they know what they’re doing!!read more

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I was scheduled to be checked and just want to say that the staff was fantastic. They were kind and helpful. I was... asked many questions related to what was going on and not once did I feel as though I was being brushed off. The front desk staff was especially great in assisting me. I'm scheduled to go back for a mri and am glad that I'll be going there.read more

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21:42 03 Nov 21

I had such a good experience with Lone Star Neurology, Brent my MRI Tech was so awesome and made sure I was very... comfortable during the appointment. He gave me ear plugs, a pillow, leg support and blanket, easiest MRI ever lol 🤣 My 72 hour EEG nurse Amanda was also so awesome. She made sure I was take care of over the 3 days and took her time with the electrodes to make sure it was comfortable for me! Paige was also a huge help in answering all my questions when it came to my test results, and letting me know her honest opinions about how I should go forth with my treatment.read more

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The professionalism and want to help attitude of this office was present from the moment I contacted them. The follow... up and follow through as well as their willingness to find a way to schedule my dad was above and beyond. We visited two offices in the same day with the same experience. I am appreciative of this—we spend a lot of time with doctors and this was top notch start to finish.read more

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16:38 16 Apr 21

I love going to this office. The staff is friendly and helpful. The doctor is great. I am getting the best... neurological tests and treatment I have ever had. The only reason I did not give them a 5 star rating is because it is impossible to reach a live person at the office to reschedule appointments. Every time I have tried to get through to the office it says all people are busy and I am sent to a voicemail. If they could get their phone answering fixed, I would give them a strong 5 stars.read more

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00:26 25 Feb 21

Dr. Harney is an excellent Dr. I found him friendly , personable and thorough. I evidently am an unusual case. ... Therefore he spent a Hugh amount of time educating me. He even gave me literature to further explain my condition and how to follow up. This is something you rarely get from your doctors. So I am more than please with my doctor and his staff.read more

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Always courteous, professional. The staff is very friendly and always work with you to find the best appointment time.... The care team has been great. Always taking the time to listen to your concerns and to find the best treatment.read more

Margaret Rowland

01:12 27 Jan 21

I have been a patient at Lone Star Neurology for several years. Now both my adult daughters also are patients there. I... love Jodie. She is always so prompt whether it is a teleamed call are a visit in the office. She takes the time to explain everything to me and answers all my questions. I am so blessed to have Jodie as my doctor.read more

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03:01 13 Jan 21

My husband had an accident 5 years ago and Lone Star Neurology has been such a blessing to us with my husbands care.... Jodie Moore is his provider and she is amazing! Jodie is very knowledgeable, caring, and thorough. She takes her time with you, making sure your needs are met and she is happy to answer any questions you may have. Lone Star Neurology’s patients are very lucky to have Jodie providing their care. Thank you Lone Star Neurology and especially Jodie for everything you have done for us. Jodie, you are the best!read more

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Jodie is wonderful. She is very caring and knowledgeable. I have been to over a dozen neurologists, and none were able... to help me as much as they have here. Thanks!read more

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Jodi Moore, nurse practitioner, is amazing. I have suffered from frequent, debilitating headaches for almost 20 years.... She has provided the best proactive and responsive care I have ever received. My quality of life has been greatly improved by her caring approach and tenacity in finding solutions.read more

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15:41 07 Jan 21

I have had the best experience at this neurologist's office! For over a year I have been receiving iv treatments here... each month and my nurse, Bobbie is beyond wonderful!! She's so attentive, knowledgeable, caring, and detail oriented. She makes an otherwise uncomfortable experience much more pleasant and definitely puts me at ease! She also helps me with my insurance,ordering this specialty medication and dealing with the ordering process which is no easy feat.Needless to say, she goes above a beyond in every way and I'm so grateful to this office and to Bobbie for all they do for me!read more

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15:39 07 Jan 21

Let me start by saying that I have been coming here for years. Due to my autoimmune disease, I am in this office... once every three weeks for multiple hours at a time. The office is very clean and the staff very friendly. My only complaint would be there communication via phone. They aren't the best at responding if you leave a voicemail and expect a call back. I understand that this is prob just due to the sheer number of alls they receive daily. What I can say I like the best about the office are the people. Bobby who handles my infusions is great. I never have any issues with her setting up my infusions. She is very quick to reply to messages sent via text and if she were to leave then my whole opinion of the office may change. I also enjoy people like Matt, Lauren, and Jodi. I appreciate all that they do for me and without this team I'm not sure I would be as happy as I am to visit the office as frequently as I have to. Please ensure that these folks are recognized as they are what makes my visit to this office so tolerable :).read more

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2 Comments

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Routan Tongaiaba

16/10/2023

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Well done

I was one of the victim and affect me last year. Most of the symptoms you mentioned I definitely had it and true. My vision is changed, and fortunately i still can talk probably. In fact, it is getting better.

It is true that we need to keep physical fit so we can continue do regular exercising and etc. Reducing blood pressure I think that is the most important part in terms of food and exercise

Now I want to thank you for the message you have shared and appreciate it
Sue

21/12/2023

Reply

I had three MRI’S one with contrast and the radiologist said I am having chronic mini strokes. It also showed brain shrinkage in a month’s time between MRI’S. I had to see a neurologist nurse couldn’t get in to doctor. My eye and right side of face twitches and feels almost numb at times. Sometimes bothers speech. After testing me for epilepsy she had me watched for 30 minutes and recorded. I managed to hold face still because I didn’t want to be diagnosed with epilepsy. She ignored MRI findings and when I brought them up said to keep blood pressure down and loose weight but nothing could be done if that was true. She said she wished I had not seen radiologist report. What should I do? She told me the facial twitching is my nerves. I was sent back with only that. No blood thinners asked about them she said take a baby aspirin. I have been diagnosed with mildly leaky heart valves before too. I feel I need more than that.