TIAs are warning that a more serious, fully evolved stroke can occur at a later date.

TIAs are warning that a more serious, fully evolved stroke can occur at a later date.

• A. False
• B. Always causes brain damage
• C. True
• D. Only in elderly

Answer: (C)

TIAs indicate a temporary interruption of blood flow to part of the brain. The deficits resolve as blood flow returns, so there is usually no permanent brain damage from the TIA itself. But their occurrence signals underlying cerebrovascular disease and substantially increases the risk that a full, disabling stroke could happen in the near future if risk factors aren’t addressed. That’s why this statement is true: a TIA serves as a warning that a more serious stroke can occur later. It’s not limited to older adults, and it doesn’t always cause brain damage, which is why the other options aren’t correct.

TIAs indicate a temporary interruption of blood flow to part of the brain. The deficits resolve as blood flow returns, so there is usually no permanent brain damage from the TIA itself. But their occurrence signals underlying cerebrovascular disease and substantially increases the risk that a full, disabling stroke could happen in the near future if risk factors aren’t addressed. That’s why this statement is true: a TIA serves as a warning that a more serious stroke can occur later. It’s not limited to older adults, and it doesn’t always cause brain damage, which is why the other options aren’t correct.