Can atrial fibrillation cause transient ischaemic attack?

Atrial fibrillation causes the upper heart chambers to quiver rather than contract smoothly. Blood may become sluggish in part of the heart and form a clot. If the clot travels to the brain and the blockage clears, symptoms can resolve; this is called a transient ischaemic attack. The symptoms are temporary, but the event is still a medical emergency because the same process can cause a lasting stroke. Explore [Atrial Fibrillation](/conditions/atrial-fibrillation/) and [Transient Ischaemic Attack](/conditions/transient-ischaemic-attack/).

Do not wait at home to see whether sudden weakness, facial drooping, speech difficulty, vision change or imbalance passes. Record the time symptoms began and seek emergency assessment. Clinicians may check the heart rhythm, brain and blood vessels, then review blood pressure, diabetes and medicines. If atrial fibrillation is confirmed, a clot-prevention plan may include an anticoagulant when appropriate. Take it exactly as prescribed and report bleeding or missed doses promptly.

Call emergency services immediately for any sudden neurological change, even if it has already stopped. New confusion, one-sided numbness, trouble speaking, loss of vision or difficulty walking should be treated as an emergency. Do not drive yourself. A symptom-free interval does not prove that the event was harmless or that further assessment can wait.

Ask whether the episode could have been a TIA, what tests are needed, how atrial fibrillation will be monitored, and whether clot-prevention treatment is appropriate for you.