transient ischaemic attack

Medical term for a ‘mini-stroke’, a sudden loss of function in one region of the brain. Symptoms may include: double vision or temporary loss of vision, speech difficulties, vomiting, loss of sensation and perhaps movement on one side of the body, dizziness, unsteadiness, loss of memory and drop attack; loss of consciousness is rare. Symptoms usually reach a peak within seconds and last for minutes or perhaps hours. Recovery is complete, but TIAs tend to recur.

TIA is caused either by the passage of tiny blood clots or, less often, by reduced blood supply to the brain. It may be associated with other diseases of the heart or blood vessels, including hypertension and . All risk factors should be treated and aspirin may be given to prevent a recurrence. Some cases may be helped by an operation known as carotid endarterectomy to clear blockage (occlusion) of one or other of the carotid arteries in the neck due to .