- A Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA) is often referred to as a “mini stroke”. The symptoms are very similar to those of a stroke but the difference is that they resolve completely. A TIA can last for minutes to hours, but not longer than 24 hours. If the symptoms persist for longer than 24 hours then the event is called a stroke.
- TIAs are caused by the blood supply to the brain being interrupted for a short period of time only.
- TIAs are an important warning sign that all is not well with the blood supply to the brain. The risk of suffering a stroke within the first month after a TIA is around 12 %, with about half of all strokes occurring within the first 24 hours following TIA.
- If a person presents with the symptoms of a stroke (as listed on previous page) call 999
Figures taken from Stroke Association: State of the nation stroke statistics (2018)
For more information on TIA download the: Understanding Transient Ischaemic Attacks (TIAs) & Minor Strokes – CHSS Information Booklet [PDF]
Page last reviewed: 19 Mar 2021
