TIA - Transient Ischaemic Attack

TIA - Transient Ischaemic Attack (mini-stroke)

A transient ischaemic attack (TIA) is a temporary blockage of blood flow in the brain that causes brief stroke symptoms.

This is sometimes called a mini-stroke and considered a warning sign of a future more serious stroke with the risk of death or brain damage.

A transient ischaemic attack (TIA) usually lasts a matter of minutes and the symptoms resolve within 24 hours. They may include weakness on one side of the body, dizziness, blurred vision, confusion and speech problems.

The NHS estimates there are more than 50,000 transient ischaemic attacks in England each year.

Although the term mini-stroke doesn't sound serious, it is a medical emergency, which is why nowadays people are moving away from using the term mini-stroke. Without getting treatment, a person has a one in 10 chance of having a full stroke within four weeks of the transient ischaemic attack (TIA).