Patients' attitudes towards TIA.

Transient ischemic attacks (TIA) are an important forewarning of stroke. By means of questionnaire, information was sought from patients who suffered a stroke regarding whether or not they had a preceding transient ischemic attack. Those with a preceding transient ischemic attack were polled for their response to the TIA; 47% of patients with a transient ischemic attack did not seek medical attention. The reasons behind failure to seek medical advice are analyzed.