A transient ischaemic attack (TIA), or 'mini-stroke', is caused by a temporary fall in the blood supply to part of the brain, leading to a lack of oxygen to the brain. This can cause symptoms that are similar to a stroke, although they don’t last as long. A TIA lasts only a few minutes and is usually resolved within 24 hours.
The main signs and symptoms of a TIA can be remembered by the word FAST: Face-Arms-Speech-Time:
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Face. The face may have fallen on one side, the person may not be able to smile, or their mouth or eye may have drooped.
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Arms. The person with suspected stroke may not be able to raise both arms and keep them there, due to arm weakness or numbness.
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Speech. There may be slurred speech.
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Time. It is time to dial 999 immediately if you see any of these signs or symptoms.
If signs and symptoms last longer than 24 hours, it is regarded as a full stroke.
How common are TIAs?
It's difficult to know exactly how common TIAs are, as many people who have TIA symptoms do not seek medical help. Approximately one person per 1,000 in the population is thought to suffer a TIA each year. On average, a GP sees three cases per year, and an average hospital manages around 1,000 cases.
A TIA is a medical emergency
If you have the symptoms of a TIA, seek medical attention urgently. TIAs are a warning sign that further TIAs, or a full stroke, may occur soon.
Without treatment, there is a one in 10 chance that you will have a full stroke within four weeks of having a TIA. A stroke is a serious condition and can cause permanent disability. In some cases, strokes can be fatal. Approximately 9% of all deaths in men and 13% of deaths in women in the UK are caused by strokes.
As TIAs are serious, it is important that they are always investigated so that appropriate treatment can be given quickly. With treatment, the risk of a further TIA or a full stroke can be greatly reduced.
Glossary
Blood
Blood supplies oxygen to the body and removes carbon dioxide. It is pumped around the body by the heart.
Brain
The brain controls thought, memory and emotion. It sends messages to the body controlling movement, speech and senses.
Oxygen
Oxygen is an odourless, colourless gas that makes up about 20% of the air we breathe.
Last updated: 06 March 2012
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