Transient Ischaemic Attack or TIA is a temporary disruption in the blood supply to part of the brain. This can happen when a clot develops in the blood vessel due to atherosclerosis. This is more likely if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, are overweight or obese, or have a family history of heart disease or if you smoke/drink in excess.
The brain needs a constant supply of blood to provide vital nutrients and oxygen to its cells.
Symptoms of TIA are similar to stroke but effects last for a few minutes and subside within 24 hours. Unlike a stroke, blood supply resumes to the part of the brain affected. TIA increases the risk of having another TIA or stroke and is a sign that the brain is not getting enough blood. Some of these symptoms may resemble a hypo so treat as an emergency.
The brain needs a constant supply of blood to provide vital nutrients and oxygen to its cells.
Symptoms of TIA are similar to stroke but effects last for a few minutes and subside within 24 hours. Unlike a stroke, blood supply resumes to the part of the brain affected. TIA increases the risk of having another TIA or stroke and is a sign that the brain is not getting enough blood. Some of these symptoms may resemble a hypo so treat as an emergency.
Use the FAST test - Face, Arms, Speech, Time –to recognize the symptoms of TIA.
Face: Can the person smile? Has the face fallen to a side?
Arms: Can the person raise both arms and keep them there?
Speech: Can the person speak clearly and understand what you say or is the speech slurred?
Time: Call the doctor if any of these symptoms are present.
Other symptoms of TIA can include sudden weakness, memory loss or vision loss.
(Source: balance May-June 2014)