Most stroke patients don’t recognize symptoms
Oxford, UK - About 70% of patients who suffer a minor stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) don’t correctly recognize their symptoms, and 30% delay seeking medical attention for over 24 hours, a new study concludes [1].
Delays in seeking treatment were unrelated to age, sex, social class, or educational level, the study also found, suggesting that public-awareness campaigns targeting specific groups are unlikely to have significant benefit, said lead author, Dr Arvind Chandratheva (University of Oxford, UK).
“What you need is a national media campaign that highlights that any symptoms that are sudden onset, particularly with face or arm weakness and speech disturbance, should necessitate urgent medical attention,” Chandratheva said.
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