When is blood pressure medication recommended for transient ischaemic attack?

A transient ischaemic attack, or TIA, is a warning event with stroke-like symptoms that resolve, but it still needs urgent medical assessment. The clinician confirms the likely cause, checks blood pressure on more than one occasion when appropriate, and reviews diabetes, kidney function, heart rhythm, smoking, and current medicines. A tablet may be started or adjusted as part of a wider prevention plan. Blood pressure is lowered in a controlled way; the right target depends on your health and should be explained at review.

Attend the recommended TIA or stroke follow-up even if you feel normal. If home readings are requested, measure under consistent conditions and write down the time, result, and symptoms. Take medicines exactly as directed and check before taking non-prescription painkillers or decongestants. Keep appointments for tests and medication review. Do not borrow tablets, double a dose, or stop treatment because the TIA symptoms have disappeared.

Call emergency services at once for new weakness, facial drooping, slurred speech, difficulty understanding, sudden vision change, severe dizziness, or loss of balance. Symptoms that clear still require urgent assessment. Chest pain, fainting, severe breathlessness, or a sudden severe headache also need emergency care. Do not wait for a home reading or try to correct these symptoms with extra medication.

Ask what blood pressure target applies, whether home monitoring is needed, how soon treatment should be reviewed, and which medicines or symptoms should prompt a call.