Investigation and management of patients with suspected TIA (Transient Ischaemic Attack)
The risk of developing a stroke after a hemispheric TIA can be as high as 20% within the first month, with the greatest risk being within the first 72 hours.
Patients first seen in the community with TIA, or with a stroke but having made a good recovery when seen, should be assessed and investigated in a specialist service, as soon as possible.
Patients likely to have a diagnosis of TIA should be prescribed an antiplatelet and statin regime immediately.
Patients likely to have a diagnosis of TIA should be advised not to drive until assessed by a specialist.
Patients should be advised to go to hospital immediately should the symptoms return.
Immediate admission to a specialist stroke service is vital for those with a greater than 20% risk of developing a completed stroke. These are patients with more than one TIA in seven days or who have three or more of the following characteristics:
- blood pressure greater than 140/90 mmHg;
- unilateral weakness or speech disturbance;
- symptoms lasting sixty minutes or more;
- or those who have diabetes
The TIA Assessment Service at St John & St ElizabethAs part of our range of services the Stroke Care Team offers a Rapid-Access TIA Assessment Service that utilities our full range of diagnostic facilities and the combined expertise of the multidisciplinary team to help identify the cause of the TIA and provide treatment to reduce the risk of further TIA's, stroke or other complications.
Accessing the TIA Assessment Services
Referrals are welcomed from GP’s, A&E Departments and other medical practitioners.Monday – Friday; 8am – 6pm please contact the Stroke Unit Admissions team on: 020 7806 4075
At all other times please call: 020 7806 4000 - ask for the “08 Bleep Holder”.
For more information you can visit The Stroke Unit Website: www.thestrokeunit.org.uk
Associated Consultants
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