4 weeks post stroke diagnosis..... Which doctor do I listen to?

Hi there,

I’m so sorry to hear about your experience. It sounds like it’s been a very challenging time for you, to say the least. Would it be okay to chat further over the phone? It would be good to find out a bit more about your situation in order to provide suggestions on the next steps.

As Diana suggested, you can ring us on 1800 787 653, otherwise you could email us if you prefer strokeline@strokefoundation.org.au.

Hope to speak soon,

Lisa (StrokeLine)

Hi there,

It is understandable how confused you must be feeling! As Meg has mentioned there are clinical guidelines around the prescription of preventative medication after stroke that hospitals follow based on the best available, highest quality research in stroke. In the case of cholesterol lowering medication being prescribed after stroke, it is regardless of what your baseline (pre-stroke) cholesterol levels are. It may appear an unusual recommendation if you don't have any other risk factors for stroke and have normal cholesterol, however this is what the evidence currently suggests. 

Our DRAFT Clinical Guidelines for Stroke Management 2017 suggest:

STRONG RECOMMENDATION: All patients with ischaemic stroke or TIA with possible atherosclerotic contribution and reasonable life expectancy should be prescribed a high potency statin, regardless of baseline lipid levels. (Manktelow et al 2009 [121]; Amarenco et al 2006 [122]).
https://www.magicapp.org/app#/guideline/1323

Secondary stroke prevention and treatment should be tailored to your individual situation, taking into consideration your age, type and cause of stroke, past history as well as the guidelines for stroke. In your particular case I would hear what both your specialist and rehab consultant have to say and make an informed decision. Weigh up the benefits and risks short and long term with them. Ask them questions to justify their reasoning to come up with a consensus on your management. You could also request that your specialist give your rehab consultant a call if you're finding it difficult to manage the two differing opinions. You have to feel comfortable with the overall decision. We don't advise you cease any medications without consulting your doctors. 

All medications can come with side effects in some individuals so discussing this with your specialist is also recommended. In some cases it can be difficult to work out what is a medication side effect and what might be an ongoing side effect of your stroke. Foggy head and fatigue are common complaints for a number of stroke survivors.

I hope you find some clarity and confidence with your management plan soon. Don't hesitate to contact us on StrokeLine on 1800 787 653 if you have any further questions or require support.

Best wishes,
Simone (StrokeLine)