What does TCI mean in PHYSIOLOGY

Definition

TCI stands for Transient Cerebral Ischemia. It describes a sudden temporary decrease in blood flow to the brain due to an obstruction such as a clot blocking an artery, or small calcium deposits causing arteries to narrow and restricting blood supply temporarily. This lack of oxygen-rich blood supply can cause permanent brain damage if left untreated, so it is important that people recognize the warning signs of TCI and seek medical help immediately if they are experiencing any symptoms.

Symptoms

The most common warning signs of TCI include sudden weakness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking, confusion, dizziness, vision loss in one eye, headache, and fainting. If someone experiences any of these symptoms they should seek medical attention right away. Other possible but less common symptoms may include numbness or tingling in the arms or legs, loss of balance or coordination, difficulty swallowing, behavioral changes or slurred speech.

Diagnosis And Treatment

In order to diagnose TCI accurately and quickly doctors may use imaging tests such as MRI scans as well as lab tests such as a Doppler ultrasound or angiogram (CT scan) which looks at the arteries supplying blood flow to the brain. Treatment for TCI varies depending on what caused it in the first place – if caused by a clot then medications like anticoagulants or thrombolytics may be prescribed while if caused by narrowing vessels then therapies such as balloon angioplasty may be recommended. Surgery may also be required depending on the severity of the case.