What does the medical term "TIA" mean?

According to the Mayo Clinic, the medical abbreviation TIA stands for transient ischemic attack. A transient ischemic attack is also referred to as a ministroke because it produces symptoms similar to a stroke, but it only lasts several minutes and does not cause permanent damage.

Information on WebMD explains that common symptoms of a transient ischemic attack include sudden numbness or loss of movement in the body, sudden vision changes, trouble speaking, sudden confusion and sudden problems with walking or balance. People who have transient ischemic attacks are more likely to suffer from a stroke in the future, so it is important to schedule a doctor's appointment to begin stroke prevention.