Stroke symptoms can be quite common, but may be unrecognized

Reported by Susan Aldridge, PhD, medical journalist

Nearly one in five adults has had at least one symptom of stroke, according to a new survey.
Many people do not recognize the symptoms of a stroke - sudden numbness or weakness in one side of the body, sudden loss of vision or the ability to speak or understand what someone else is saying. Often, therefore, medical attention is not sought. But these symptoms, although they may clear up, may be a warning that the person is at risk of a major stroke in the future.

Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham now report on a survey of 18,462 individuals as part of the Reasons for Geographical and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) Study. This survey included 41 per cent African-Americans, while about 35 per cent of the residents were from the so-called 'stroke belt' which includes eight Southeastern states where stroke is more common. Telephone interviews revealed that 17.8 per cent of the group had experienced at least one stroke symptom, as described above.

Further analysis revealed that African-Americans and those with lower incomes, less education and higher stroke risk were more likely to report stroke symptoms. Those with poorer overall health were also more likely to report stroke symptoms. It's not known, from this study, if those experiencing stroke symptoms sought medical advice. But previous studies suggest that many do not seek medical care for stroke symptoms or, if they do, there is a delay in doing so. Clearly there is a need for more education on stroke symptoms, so people may reduce their risk of a major stroke later on.

Source
Archives of Internal Medicine 9th October 2006 Volume 166 pages 1952-1958

Please take a moment to give us your comments. For questions about Health matters you may check our "Questions & Answers" Portal and Service.