Making the Diagnosis
The diagnosis of TIA depends on a detailed review of the symptoms, medical history, and neurological examination, and consideration of other conditions that may mimic a TIA (such as migraine, seizure, brain tumor, or non-neurological conditions).
To confirm the diagnosis and exclude other conditions, a brain scan such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be performed. Doppler ultrasound tests may be performed to see if there are blockages in the arteries. In some circumstances, an angiogram (a procedure in which dye is injected into the carotid artery via a small tube inserted into a blood vessel) may be done to investigate further.