Transient ischemic attack

A transient ischemic attack, or mini stroke, is a brief loss of blood flow to part of the brain, causing stroke-like symptoms without death of brain tissue. Anyone can have one, though older people are affected more often, and an attack signals a higher stroke risk in the near term. The blockage is usually a clot travelling from elsewhere, sometimes the heart; fatty material, air bubbles or narrowed vessels are other causes. Leading risk factors are high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, heavy drinking, smoking, high cholesterol and heart or artery disease. Sudden facial drooping, arm weakness or numbness, slurred speech, visual disturbance, dizziness and poor balance are typical. Diagnosis uses the history and examination, with brain scans, vascular imaging and heart rhythm tests to find the cause. Treatment aims to prevent stroke through lifestyle change, control of blood pressure and cholesterol, clot-reducing medicines and, for blocked neck arteries, carotid surgery.

Seek emergency care for chest pain or pressure lasting more than a few minutes, sudden breathlessness, fainting, or weakness or numbness of the face, arm or leg. See a doctor soon for palpitations, swollen ankles, breathlessness on exertion or a blood pressure reading that stays high. Call the local emergency number for any symptom that is sudden and severe. This page is a reference for healthcare professionals and does not replace an assessment.