What is a TIA?

NUMBNESS or paralysis of the face and limbs, speech difficulties, dizziness, vision impairment and headache are some of the stroke-like symptoms of a transient ischaemic attack (TIA).

According to Professor Chris Levi from the University of Newcastle, a TIA occurs when the blood supply to the brain is briefly interrupted, either by a small clot or internal bleeding with the stroke-like symptoms tending to dissipate within 24 hours.

TIA's can be a warning sign of an impending stroke, and "shouldn't be ignored even if the signs go away and the patient feels better and early diagnosis greatly reduces the chance of a major stroke," Professor Levi, added.

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