Ask Dr Miriam

Q My dad had a nasty turn a few weeks ago. The doctor said he had a TIA. He got better in a few days, but I’m wondering if he’ll be all right?

A A TIA is a mini stroke caused by a small clot blocking an artery in the brain.

It gets better within 24 hours, meaning the clot has broken up without treatment.

However, a TIA means something isn’t right and a full-blown stroke may follow, so I hope your dad’s GP is doing tests such as checking blood pressure to see if he needs any treatment. A funny turn should never be dismissed. Always be on the lookout for sudden numbness or weakness down one side of the body, sudden memory loss or confusion, dizziness and a sudden fall, a severe headache, difficulty in speaking clearly or finding words, sudden blurred vision in one or both eyes and seek immediate help.