EnableMe | enableme - stroke recovery and support

Hi,

I am 52 and had a stroke a few weeks ago affecting the left frontal lobe and parietal lobe. I am extremely lucky that I have had no lasting effects. No cause was found as I have none of the lifestyle symptoms that would increase the chance of a stroke ie I don't have high blood pressure, I am not overweight, have never smoked or taken drugs, drink very occassionally and have normal cholesterol levels. I exercise quite frequently (still play footy in winter). I suspect it was heart-related however have performed all the standard tests (including TOE - Trans-oesophageal echocardiogram) and no issues found.

I don't know if this is the right place to ask but my concern is my heart beat. Tests have revealed mildly dilated LV with reduced global systolic function and mild aortic regurgitation. I have seen my own specialist neurologist and cardiologist and this does not seem to be an issue with them.

Before my stroke my resting heartbeat was around 50 (which is quite low anyway) but now it is reaching down to 40 beats a minute. At the hospital a week or so ago whilst waiting for my TOE and on the machine my heart rate every now and then was dropping to 34 ( a doctor noted it). I have a lowish BP (just tested at 104/59).

So I guess my question, is this at all abnormal? Should there be more concern? I feel fine now (I felt fine before my stroke) other than short bouts of mild dizziness sometimes when getting up from lying or sitting position.

My concern of course is getting another stroke. I am on aspirin but it really is in the back of my mind. I don't feel comfortable having such a low heartbeat and doctors telling me there's not much more than can test or do.

Thanks for any comments or advice.

Hello AlVas

It can be very difficult not knowing what has caused your stroke, and perhaps feeling concerned about whether it might happen again. It’s good that you are aware of the risk factors associated with having a stroke, and that you have been focused on keeping yourself healthy. I could imagine that it must be very frustrating for you. Thank you for reaching out and it is good to hear that you have recovered well so far.

It sounds like you have been proactive and I’m glad to hear that you have been to see your neurologist and cardiologist. I would recommend going back to the cardiologist and discuss your concerns with them. It is always best to discuss any medical concerns with your treating specialists, as they will be aware of your test results, your past history and any treatment that may reduce your risk of another stroke. The fact your heart rate is low, and that you are having some mild dizziness, I would recommend going back to the cardiologist. Any change to blood pressure or heart rate are something we would recommend medical follow up for. You are also entitled to seek a second opinion if you feel this could be helpful.

In some instances, despite testing, the cause of a stroke cannot be determined. In this case, the stroke of unknown cause is called a “cryptogenic stroke.” It’s estimated that about 25% of ischemic strokes are cryptogenic. In these cases we would generally recommend you speak with your neurologist and cardiologist to rule out any factors that may have lead to you having your stroke. It sounds like you and your doctors have been thorough and have had the tests we would suggest. The only other options might be helpful could be blood tests looking at the time it takes your blood to clot and platelet counts. If you haven’t had any recent blood tests, maybe discuss these with your specialists.

Have you listened to any of the EnableMe podcasts? You might be interested in the Fear of a Second Stroke as it might provide some strategies to help manage your concerns. There is also a blog The Fear Factor which also provides some ideas on helping with any concerns you may have.

If you’d like to talk in more detail, you are welcome to give us a call at StrokeLine on Ph. 1800 787 653. We are available Monday to Friday 9amn to 5pm (AEST)

Kind regards

Siobhan

Possibilities for Unknown Stroke Cause

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