If you’re feeling persistently drained of energy, a silent mini-stroke could be the underlying cause, according to a new study.
Mini-strokes, or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), occur when blood flow to the brain is temporarily blocked. Symptoms—such as muscle weakness, headaches, or vision changes—often resolve within 24 hours, leading many to overlook them. However, recent research from Denmark suggests these seemingly minor events can leave long-lasting effects, including fatigue that lingers for up to a year.
Understanding the Impact of TIAs
TIAs affect more than 240,000 Americans and around 45,000 Britons annually, yet only about 3% of sufferers realize they’ve experienced one. The study, conducted by Dr. Boris Modrau and his team at Aalborg University Hospital, found that fatigue following a TIA may result from the brain working harder to compensate for the temporary disruption in blood flow.
“People with a transient ischemic attack often experience symptoms such as face drooping, arm weakness, or slurred speech, which typically resolve quickly,” Dr. Modrau explained. “But many patients report ongoing challenges, including reduced quality of life, cognitive difficulties, depression, anxiety, and fatigue.”
Key Findings of the Study
The Danish researchers followed 354 individuals, with an average age of 70, who had experienced a Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs). Over the course of a year, participants completed surveys assessing their fatigue levels at two weeks, and then at three, six, and 12 months.
- Two Weeks Post-TIA: 61% of participants reported heightened fatigue.
- Long-Term Fatigue: Approximately half continued to experience fatigue at the three, six, and 12-month marks.
- Contributing Factors: Participants with a history of anxiety or depression were twice as likely to report ongoing fatigue.
The study also included brain scans to identify potential blood clots, further solidifying the link between TIAs and fatigue.
Implications for Patient Care
While the study was observational and cannot definitively prove that TIAs directly cause prolonged fatigue, its findings underscore the importance of monitoring post-stroke symptoms.
“Fatigue within two weeks of a mini-stroke may indicate a higher likelihood of continued fatigue over the following year,” said Dr. Modrau. “Healthcare providers should prioritize assessing fatigue in TIA patients and consider it as part of the recovery process.”
Moving forward, researchers aim to explore tailored interventions for patients experiencing post-TIA fatigue, offering hope for improved management and quality of life.
What to Watch For?
If you suspect you’ve had a mini-stroke, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms can include sudden muscle weakness, vision changes, or difficulty speaking. Early diagnosis and treatment not only reduce the risk of a full-blown stroke but may also mitigate long-term effects like chronic fatigue.