Transient ischaemic attack
June 2003
Episodes of temporary loss of function in one area of the brain resulting from a reduced blood supply to the brain.
The brain requires about 20 per-cent of the circulation of blood in the body. A primary blood supply to the brain is through two arteries in the neck (the cartoid arteries) that branch off within the brain to multiple arteries that supply specific areas of the brain. If the blood flow is decreased for longer than a few seconds, brain cells in the area die (infarct), causing permanent damage to that area of the brain or even death. The major causes of loss of blood circulation to areas of the brain are reduced blood flow (ischemia) and bleeding (hemorrhage). Transient ischemic attack is a warning that the body’s safety mechanisms are overloaded and indicates that a stroke may be pending.
In the UK, about one in 2,000 people has a transient ischaemic attack, more commonly after the age of 45. Attacks are three times more common in men.[Go to note 1] It is important that a transient ischaemic attack is not ignored because there is a strong possibility that it may be followed by a stroke. Without treatment, about one in three people who has an attack goes on the have a stroke later on. Almost all patients who have suffered a transient ischaemic attack will take aspirin which can be a severe gastric irritant, especially in the elderly
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References:
[1] BMA’s ‘Complete Family Health Guide’ Dorling Kindersley 2000
Access further information using the links below:
- American Stroke Association
- BBCi Health – Stroke
- Brain and Spine Foundation – Stroke leaflet (PDF)
- Heart & Stroke Encyclopedia (American Heart Association)
- MEDLINEplus Health topics – Transient ischaemic
- MEDLINEplus Medical Encyclopaedia – Transient ischaemic attack
- National Electronic library for health (NHS) – National clinical guidelines for stroke