Making the Diagnosis
If you develop symptoms of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), the
doctor will ask about your medical history and any recent events that may be
related to your symptoms.
After a physical and neurological examination, other tests can be done to help
confirm the diagnosis. These may include imaging scans of the brain, such as
CT (computed tomography) or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging),
or electrical tests for checking brain activity such as an EEG (electroencephalogram).
Blood flow tests, which include angiography or Doppler ultrasound
studies, among others, are often done to see whether there is a blockage
of blood flow in the arteries. Additional tests may include blood tests, chest
X-rays, and tests of the heart such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or ultrasound
(echocardiogram).