Life After Transient Ischemic Attack

Background: Transient ischemic attack (TIA) is defined as acute neurological symptoms of vascular origin, which resolves completely within 24 hours. However, emerging evidence indicates that up to 1/3 of patients is experiencing (non-focal) lasting symptoms, such as fatigue, depression, and anxiety. Aim: The aim of this study is to investigate self-reported lasting symptoms after TIA, timing of these symptoms as well as their potential resolution and characterize patients who have high risk for developing these symptoms. Method: This is a prospective cohort study which will include 350-400 patients with TIA from a single comprehensive stroke care center which serves the population in North Denmark Region, one of five administrative regions in Denmark (Stroke Unit, Aalborg University Hospital). Outcome measures include patient-reported outcomes collected at discharge, 3, 6 and 12 months and semi-structured interviews with a selected sample of patients. Perspective: This study will provide much needed insights into the development of lasting symptoms in patients with TIA in a cohort with presumed high external validity. Based on these results, a person-centered intervention will be designed to support the return to everyday life for patients with TIA.