---
title: "Transient Ischaemic Attack | First Aid Glossary"
description: "A TIA is a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain. Symptoms are stroke-like and require urgent medical care."
canonical: "https://www.australiawidefirstaid.com/resources/glossary/transient-ischaemic-attack"
---

# Transient Ischaemic Attack

[Resources](https://www.australiawidefirstaid.com/resources) › [Glossary](https://www.australiawidefirstaid.com/resources/glossary)

## What is a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) and how is it managed in first aid?

A Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA), also called a mini-stroke, is a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain. Symptoms are similar to a stroke but usually resolve within minutes to hours. It is a medical emergency and warning sign of a future stroke.

A Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA), often referred to as a mini-stroke, is a temporary disruption of blood flow to part of the brain. This leads to stroke-like symptoms, which usually resolve within minutes to a few hours. Despite the brief duration, a TIA is a serious warning sign that a major [stroke](https://www.australiawidefirstaid.com.au/resources/glossary/stroke) may occur soon and requires urgent medical attention.

Symptoms of a TIA can include sudden weakness or numbness (typically on one side of the body), difficulty speaking or understanding speech, vision changes, [dizziness](https://www.australiawidefirstaid.com.au/resources/glossary/dizziness), and loss of coordination. Because symptoms can vanish quickly, it’s easy to dismiss them—but doing so can be dangerous.

In first aid, if someone shows signs of a TIA, you should apply the FAST test:

- F – Face: Check if their face droops on one side.
- A – Arms: Can they lift both arms evenly?
- S – Speech: Is their speech slurred or strange?
- T – Time: Call 000 immediately, even if symptoms have resolved.

Have the person rest in a comfortable position while waiting for emergency services. Monitor them closely and do not give food, drink, or medication unless directed by a medical professional.

Early recognition and response to a TIA can help prevent a life-threatening stroke. Always treat it as an emergency.

## Signs and symptoms of a transient ischaemic attack:

- Sudden weakness or numbness (often on one side)
- Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
- Blurred or loss of vision
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Symptoms resolve within minutes to hours

## First aid for transient ischaemic attack:

1. Use the FAST test (Face, Arms, Speech, Time).
2. Call 000 immediately – even if symptoms disappear.
3. Keep the person at rest in a comfortable position.
4. Monitor for changes in consciousness or symptoms.
5. Do not give food, drink, or medication unless advised by emergency services.

> A TIA (mini-stroke) causes temporary stroke-like symptoms and is a serious warning sign of future stroke.

## Watch: Splinter Probe Safe and Effective First Aid Tool for Splinter Removal

[Watch on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DPapsPfq8to)

## Learn this hands-on

A nationally accredited first aid course covers this and much more. [Find a course and check live session availability](https://www.australiawidefirstaid.com/#find-course).

---

**Australia Wide First Aid** · RTO 31961

- Phone: (07) 3437 7500
- Email: info@australiawidefirstaid.com.au
- Hours: Mon – Fri 7am – 7pm (AEST)