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TIA clinic information
You have been referred to the TIA clinic following symptoms which may have been caused by a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), sometimes known as a ‘mini stroke’.
A TIA is caused by a temporary disruption to the blood supply to part of the brain. This can cause symptoms similar to a stroke, including problems with speech, vision, numbness or weakness in the face, arms or legs. A TIA does not last as long as a stroke. The effects last a few minutes to a few hours and fully resolve within 24 hours.
Your appointment at the TIA clinic will help the clinical team understand what may have caused your symptoms and whether you need any further tests, treatment or support.
Arriving at the clinic
Do not drive to your TIA clinic appointment. After a TIA (transient ischaemic attack), you must not drive for at least one month. You should not start driving again until you have been assessed and advised by the clinic or your clinician.
The TIA clinic is located on Ward G8 (the stroke unit) at West Suffolk Hospital.
When you arrive to Ward G8, please tell the ward clerk you have arrived. Then take a seat in the waiting area by the ward entrance. A member of the clinical team will come and collect you for your appointment.
What to bring with you
Please bring the following with you to your appointment:
- a drink and something to eat, such as lunch or a snack
- a list of your current medications
- any relevant medical letters from other hospitals or clinics
- something to read, such as a book or magazine, if you wish.
To help reduce the spread of infection, we ask that family members and friends do not accompany you into the clinic unless you need additional support.
If you need someone to attend with you, please contact the stroke office on 01284 713621 before your appointment.
What may happen during your visit
The TIA clinic is a ‘one-stop’ clinic. We aim to carry out any necessary tests, discuss your possible diagnosis, start treatment where needed, and provide information and advice during the same visit.
Please expect to be at the clinic for most of the day, possibly until late afternoon. This allows time for any tests you may need and for the clinical team to review your results.
Because of emergency care within the hospital, we cannot always guarantee that every test will take place on the same day. Although this is uncommon, you may occasionally need to return for a further appointment.
During your visit, you may have some of the following tests and assessments:
- blood tests
- an electrocardiogram (ECG) to check your heart rhythm
- blood pressure checks, including lying and standing readings
- a carotid Doppler ultrasound scan to look at the arteries in your neck
- a CT or MRI scan of your head, if needed for further assessment
You may also have time waiting between tests and appointments while the clinical team reviews your results.
We understand waiting can be difficult and appreciate your patience while we provide the best possible care.