A new online survey of U.S. women finds only about one in four women aged 25 to 75 can name more than two primary symptoms of stroke.

This is important because researchers say it takes longer for women than men to seek medical care at the hospital after a stroke, and researchers think lack of awareness about symptoms may cause even worse delays.

The survey also found that women think that breast cancer is five times more common than stroke (women are actually twice as likely to die of stroke than breast cancer), and 40 percent of women surveyed weren't very concerned about experiencing a stroke.

In general, women surveyed weren't aware that women suffer more strokes than men, and one-quarter said they didn't believe stroke could happen at any age.

The researchers also found that black and Hispanic women knew fewer facts about stroke than white women in some specific areas of knowledge.

"If you experience any of the symptoms of a stroke, it is imperative to call 911 so you receive immediate medical attention, even if the symptoms go away," Dr. Angela Gardner, president of the American College of Emergency Physicians, said in a news release from the HealthyWomen organization. "Time equals brain; for every minute the brain is deprived of oxygen, it may lose up to 1.9 million brain cells. If you are having even one of the symptoms of stroke, come to the emergency department so we can evaluate and treat you."

The main symptoms of stroke are:

• Sudden difficulty speaking, understanding speech, or confusion
• Sudden numbness or weakness in the limbs, particularly on one side
• Sudden facial drooping or numbness and weakness on one side of the face
• Sudden balance problems, dizziness or trouble walking
• Sudden difficulty seeing with one or both eyes
• Sudden severe headache

The online-only survey included 2,000 women in the United States, and was undertaken on behalf of HealthyWomen in conjunction with the American College of Emergency Physicians and National Stroke Association. It was funded by the Genentech, a biotech company that develops medications.

More information

For more on preventing stroke, visit the U.S. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.

Headaches are common complaint in women's health care. For some theses headaches occur on a regular basis, usually in relation to their menstrual cycle. Others may experience headaches due to life stressors or various health issues. It can take some time as well as some good detective work to find out what triggers a person's headache. Using your health care provider you may be able to find the best way to manage headaches and achieve relief.

Using over the counter medications to treat headaches is a common practice for many. While this can help one achieve relief, it may also be causing other problems in the body. Non steroidal medications such as ibuprofen, naprosyn, and aspirin can irritate the lining of the stomach causing tissue changes that may lead to ulcers. Knowing what other mediation you are taking is important due to certain drug interactions. Another thing to keep in mind when treating headaches with over the counter medications is the potential for rebound headaches. Chronic, recurrent headaches may be a sign of other medical health problems and should be evaluated by a licensed health care provider.

Migraine: Up to 70% of women experiencing migraines report an association with menstrual cycles. Menstrual migraines tend to be more severe, longer in duration, and less responsive to treatments than non-menstrual migraines. These estrogen associated migraines occur in settings when there is decline in estrogen concentration including menstrual cycles and withdrawal for hormone products such as contraceptives or hormone replacement treatments.

Tension: Most common type of headache affecting up to 80% of adults. These occur bilaterally and are often slow progressing. They can be recurrent and chronic due to muscle tightness and muscle stress. These types of headaches may be managed with massage therapy as this mode of therapy brings circulation back to the muscles.

Sinus: Most often associated with deep and constant pain in the cheekbones, forehead, or over bridge of nose. This pain usually intensifies with sudden head movement or straining. Other sinus symptoms may or may not be present. Massage works well to relax tightened facial muscles providing relief.

Chronic or recurring headaches may be the sign of other underlying health problems and should be evaluated by a health care professional.