ROLE OF BLOOD THINNERS IN TIA (TRANSIENT ISCHEMIC ATTACK)

In transient ischemic attack, the blood vessel is blocked. The blockage can be caused by a blood clot that forms in the blood vessel (thrombosis) or it can be caused by a clot or debris that floats downstream (embolus).

Atherosclerosis, or "hardening of the arteries" can cause fatty plaque formations in he blood vessel wall. The plaque can rupture and causes a small blood clot to form and occlude the blood vessel. Blockage can also occur when debris from narrowing of a carotid artery breaks off, and floats downstream to cause the occlusion. Sometimes, in people with an irregular heart beat called atrial fibrillation, small blood clots can be formed and travel to the brain to cause the obstruction.

A blood thinner, also called an anti-coagulant, is used to stop plateleTs, or heavy cells, present in blood plasma from forming clots. They are most used in those who are at risk for heart attack, stroke, or aneurisms. A blood thinner can be composed of several different chemical formations. The most common blood thinner, and most often used is aspirin, taken in doses of 81mg per day, essentially one baby aspirin.

Blood thinners — such as aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin) and heparin derivatives — decrease your risk of blood clotting. But these medications must be taken precisely as directed to work safely and effectively. Taking too little of these drugs may not be effective, and taking too much can lead to serious bleeding. Regular blood tests may be required to assure proper dosing.
Also, in some cases, blood thinners may not be able to counter the strong clotting tendency of an underlying disease, such as cancer. So, clots may still form.
If you take a blood thinner, be sure to follow your doctor's advice on dosing and ask about foods and other medications — including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements — that may interfere with the action of the blood thinner.