Mini-strokes can cause fatigue lasting up to a year, new study reveals

Prolonged fatigue is often attributed to poor sleep habits, but a new study from Aalborg University Hospital in Denmark has found that it could also be a lingering effect of mini-strokes. Known medically as transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), mini-strokes are temporary blockages of blood flow to the brain that result in a short period of symptoms, according to Mayo Clinic.

The study, published in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, followed 354 individuals with an average age of 70 who had experienced a mini-stroke. Over a 12-month period, participants reported their levels of fatigue in various areas, including overall tiredness, physical tiredness, reduced activity, reduced motivation, and mental fatigue.

The results showed that individuals who had experienced a mini-stroke were more likely to report prolonged fatigue lasting up to one year. On a scale ranging from 4 to 20, with 20 being the most fatigued, participants reported an average score of 12.3 two weeks after the mini-stroke, decreasing to 11.1 at the one-year mark.

Interestingly, those who reported prolonged fatigue were twice as likely to experience anxiety and/or depression. This finding suggests that mental health issues may play a role in the development of long-term fatigue following a mini-stroke.

Bradley Serwer, an interventional cardiologist, explained that fatigue following a stroke can be caused by various factors, including the brain’s healing process, increased inflammation, lower levels of neurotransmitters, sleep disturbances, and medication side effects. Additionally, simple tasks may require more mental effort after a stroke, contributing to feelings of fatigue.

The study had some limitations, including its observational nature and reliance on self-reported questionnaires. However, the researchers hope that healthcare providers will begin to acknowledge and address lasting fatigue in patients who have experienced a mini-stroke.

In conclusion, the study sheds light on the often-overlooked issue of prolonged fatigue following mini-strokes. By recognizing and addressing this symptom, healthcare providers can better support patients in their recovery process. For more information on health-related topics, visit www.foxnews.com/health.