Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA)

Urgent specialist assessment of TIA — sometimes called a "mini stroke" or "warning stroke".

A Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA) is a brief episode of neurological dysfunction caused by a temporary loss of blood flow to the brain, retina, or spinal cord. Symptoms typically resolve within minutes to hours and leave no lasting deficit, but a TIA carries a significant short-term risk of full stroke — particularly in the first 48 hours.

For this reason, TIA is treated as a neurological emergency. Dr Valente accepts urgent referrals for TIA assessment and works to identify the underlying cause and start preventive treatment as quickly as possible.

Common TIA Symptoms

TIA symptoms come on suddenly and may include:

Weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg — usually on one side
Slurred speech or difficulty finding words
Sudden loss of vision in one eye (amaurosis fugax) or part of the visual field
Double vision
Sudden loss of balance or coordination
Severe, unfamiliar dizziness or vertigo with other neurological signs

Symptoms that resolve quickly should never be ignored — they are often the only warning before a more serious stroke.

Acute Symptoms Are an Emergency

If symptoms are happening now, or have only just resolved, call 000 immediately. Even if symptoms have stopped, urgent emergency department assessment is recommended within the first 24–48 hours.

This page is for outpatient consultation following a TIA, not for active symptoms.

Identifying the Cause

Finding the underlying mechanism guides treatment. Investigations may include:

Brain imaging — MRI is preferred to detect small ischaemic lesions
Vascular imaging of the carotid and intracranial arteries (CT angiography, MR angiography, or carotid ultrasound)
Cardiac assessment, including ECG, echocardiography, and ambulatory rhythm monitoring to look for atrial fibrillation
Blood tests for cholesterol, glucose, and other vascular risk factors
Selected investigations for younger patients or unusual presentations — including thrombophilia screening and assessment for vasculitis or arterial dissection

Treatment & Stroke Prevention

An individualised prevention plan typically addresses:

Antiplatelet therapy (or anticoagulation if atrial fibrillation or another cardiac source is found)
Blood pressure optimisation
Cholesterol management, usually with a statin
Diabetes control where relevant
Carotid intervention — medical, surgical (endarterectomy), or endovascular (stenting) — when significant carotid stenosis is identified
Lifestyle measures: smoking cessation, alcohol reduction, physical activity, and dietary advice
Driving advice in line with current Australian guidelines

Trusted Resources

Reputable Australian organisations providing patient information about TIA and stroke prevention.

Stroke Foundation Australia — About Stroke and TIA — the national peak body for stroke awareness, prevention, and survivor support.
Better Health Channel — Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA) — Victorian Government plain-language overview.
healthdirect Australia — TIA — national government health information service.
Brain Foundation — Australian research and information across neurological conditions.

StrokeLine (free advice from allied health professionals): 1800 787 653, Mon–Fri 9am–5pm AEST.

Urgent Referrals & Bookings

TIA referrals are triaged as a priority. Please indicate clearly on the referral if the event was within the past two weeks so it can be expedited.

To arrange an appointment, visit the Bookings page or get in touch via Contact.

This is general information only and not a substitute for individual medical advice.
All referrals will be reviewed when received and triaged appropriately.