Daily life consequences, cognitive impairment, and fatigue after transient ischemic attack

Studies suggest that fatigue and cognitive impairment may be present after transient ischemic attack (TIA), but little is known about consequences in daily life. The main aim was to longitudinally explore the presence of fatigue, cognitive impairment, and consequences in daily life including communication after clinically diagnosed TIA at 1 and 9 months after the event.

A consecutive sample of 46 patients (23 women, 69 ± 12.3 years) was assessed at discharge from hospital and at 1 and 9 months after TIA regarding cognition, mental fatigue, tiredness, and activities of daily life. This served as basis for an interview concerning experienced changes related to the TIA.

Problems in daily life with probable association with the TIA were experienced by 37% (n = 45) of participants 9 months after the TIA event. Cognitive impairment was present in 40% (n = 44) after 1 month and 30% (n = 23) after 9 months. Mental fatigue was experienced by 26% (n = 42) after 1 month and 17% (n = 39) after 9 months. Communication problems were reported and increased from 7 to 14 participants between the two time points.

A third of the TIA patients experienced problems in performance of complex activities in daily life and often communication problems within the first 9 months. Cognitive impairment and mental fatigue could be factors influencing performance in daily life and at work, but this needs to be verified in a larger sample. The risk of activity limitations indicates need for multiprofessional support and systematic routines for TIA follow-up.