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What is a Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA)?
A TIA describes temporary stroke signs and symptoms, which go within minutes to hours. A TIA occurs when blood supply to part of your brain or eye is temporarily interrupted. A TIA is considered a warning event that a stroke might happen soon and that you need to seek medical attention urgently. This warning event provides an opportunity to prevent stroke, and guidelines recommend this is assessed in a rapid access TIA clinic.
What happens next?
You have been referred by a health professional to TIA clinic for review and investigation. The TIA clinic allows you to be assessed, diagnosed, and treated quickly to reduce the risk of further TIAs or a stroke.
Arranging an appointment in TIA clinic:
- TIA clinic will call you to make an appointment (this may have a ‘no caller ID’ number). The appointment might be face to face or telephone.
- Make sure your health professional has your correct telephone number.
Before coming to TIA clinic:
- Any new medication will be reviewed in clinic.
- DO NOT DRIVE until you have been assessed in the TIA clinic. Please usealternative transport options to attend this rapid access clinic.
What / who shall I bring to TIA clinic?
- A list of your current medications
- Any witness to the possible TIA event
- Do bring a snack and drink with you, the appointment may take up to 6 hours.
What will happen in TIA clinic?
- Everyone attending the clinic will see a stroke health professional who will complete an assessment.
- Your blood pressure and an ECG (electrical recording of your heart) will be completed. A scan of your neck (carotid ultrasound) and brain imaging may be needed.
- The results of the tests will be given to you in clinic.
- You will be given some advice on how to reduce your risk of a stroke or TIA.
- New medication may be started.
- A letter will be sent to you and your GP explaining the diagnosis and plan.
What should I do if I get new or the same symptoms before TIA clinic?
- Seek urgent medical advice – Either dial 999 or proceed directly to your closest Emergency Department (please be aware that some hospitals do not manage stroke patients so you may be transferred).
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Emergency department (ED) service.
About this information
Service:
Emergency department (ED)
Reference:
A/038
Approval date:
1 March 2025
Review date:
1 March 2027
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.