Impact of transient ischaemic attack and minor stroke on daily life

IJTR: 03 Jul 2014

Background: The aim of this study was to identify functional, emotional and cognitive problems following transient ischaemic attack (TIA) and minor stroke (mS).

Methods: Participants were recruited from patients who were attending a TIA and minor stroke clinic. A control group of healthy adults was recruited through community groups. Participants were asked to complete questionnaire measures to assess independence in activities of daily living, mood, fatigue and quality of life.

Findings: Questionnaires were returned by 106 people with TIA or minor stroke and 67 healthy controls. Those with TIA or minor stroke scored significantly lower on the Nottingham Extended Activities of Daily Living Scale compared with the control group (P<0.001). Difficulties were most frequently reported in leisure activities and mobility tasks. A high proportion of participants with TIA or minor stroke reported clinically significant levels of fatigue (41%), anxiety (31%) and depression (28%). There were significant differences between those with TIA or minor stroke and healthy controls on these questionnaire measures (P<0.05). Read More