What is a mini stroke or TIA, what are the warning signs, symptoms and what should you do if you suspect a transient ischaemic attack?
EARLIER this week, former US Olympian Michael Johnson suffered from a mini-stroke.
But what is a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) and what should you do if you suspect one?
What is a mini stroke or TIA?
According to the , a TIA is caused by a temporary disruption in the blood supply to the brain, often caused by a blood clot that has formed somewhere else in your body.
This results in a lack of oxygen, which can cause symptoms similar to those of a stroke.
Certain things increase your risk, these include: smoking, having high blood pressure; being obese; having high cholesterol; regularly drinking an excessive amount of alcohol; having atrial fibrillation (which is an irregular heartbeat) and having diabetes.
What are the warning signs and symptoms?
Like those associated with a stroke, signs and symptoms include a disturbance to speech and eyes, and numbness or weakness in the face, arms and legs.
Using the word FAST can help remember the main symptoms.
Face
The face may drop on one side, which can result in the person being unable to smile.
Arms
The person might not be able to lift their arms, or hold them up due to weakness or numbness.
Speech
Speech may be slurred or the person may not be able to talk at all, despite appearing conscious.
Time
If you see or suspect any of these signs, call 999 immediately.
What should you do if you suspect a transient ischaemic attack?
Call an ambulance immediately.
The NHS say a TIA doesn't last as long as a stroke, with effects lasting for minutes or hours, and usually resolving within a day.
However, they are a warning sign that another one may follow and according to the NHS, having a TIA means you're at high risk of having a full, life-threatening stroke in the near future.
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