transient episode of neurological dysfunction with complete resolution caused by focal ischaemia of the brain, spinal cord, retina without evidence of acute infarction on neuroimaging

Demographics

• Incidence increases with age.
• M > F.

Risk Factors

• Age >65 years.
• Personal/family Hx of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease. i.e. Hx of TIA or stroke.
• Hypertension.
• Valve disease.
• Atherosclerosis.
• Dyslipidaemia.
• Diabetes mellitus.
• Tobacco smoking.
• Heavy alcohol use.
• Recreational drug use, especially sympathomimetic drugs such as cocaine.
• Obesity & sedentary lifestyle.
• Obstructive sleep apnoea.
• OCP/HRT use.