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Early presentation time was associated with increased age,the sudden onset of a stable deficit,and recognition that the symptoms signified stroke. Only the sudden onset of a stable deficit correlated independently with early presentation time(P=.0048).There was no correlation between presentation time and prior transient ischemic attack or stroke,headache, vomiting,loss of consciousness or seizures at onset,or stroke subtype,but a type II error could not be excluded.Despite their education level, regular health care,and risk factors,especially prior stroke and transient ischemic attack,these patients were not knowledgeable about stroke and delayed many hours before contacting physicians.The course of symptoms and recognition that they signified stroke were associated with earlier presentation.Patient education focused on groups at risk may hasten the presentation and treatment of acute stroke. |
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