Transient ischaemic attack (TIA)

What is a TIA?

A transient ischaemic attack (TIA) is a short episode when part of your brain does not get enough blood for a little while.

Blood carries oxygen and nutrients to your brain cells. It flows through arteries vessels that work like tubes or pipes.

• If a clot or narrowing blocks an artery, blood cannot reach that area of the brain properly. Brain cells become stressed and you may notice sudden warning signs.
• When the blockage clears, blood flow returns and those signs often fade or disappear within minutes.

Unlike a completed stroke, a TIA usually does not leave lasting problems with walking, movement, speech, swallowing, or vision.

• Some people still feel very tired afterwards, or notice changes in thinking or mood, such as feeling sad, worried, or frightened.
• Sometimes the event may actually have been a small stroke; only the right brain imaging can show that. That can mean some effects last longer than first thought.

What are the signs of a TIA

The F.A.S.T. check (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) is an easy way to remember the most common stroke warning signs. With a TIA, the signs are the same sort of thing, but they usually go away after a short time as blood flow returns.

• Do not wait to see if symptoms clear on their own act straight away.

If you have any sign that could be stroke even if it only lasts a few minutes, or you are not sure call 7905007 immediately.

Tests, treatment and looking after your health

After a TIA, your doctor will arrange tests, referrals, and follow-up appointments. Go to all of them.

After a TIA, your risk of stroke is higher, especially in the first few days and weeks. Getting tests and treatment early helps lower that risk. Looking after your overall health-blood pressure, activity, diet, and medicines as prescribed, helps too.