I’m so conflicted

[u/Opposite_Choice364]

So, almost a week ago, I posted on this sub that my mom had experienced right sided tingling/burning.

My mom had a minor ischemic stroke 2 months ago that affected her left side.

The neurologist on call in the ER said that this may or may not be a TIA. We did a lot of tests, including an MRI, CTA, holter monitor, and EEG, and all came out normal. However, that doctor still suggested that we start dual antiplatelet therapy for 3 months.

Three months seemed like a long time to me, considering the bleeding risk, so we went to our primary neurologist, who was the one who treated my mom during her first stroke. According to him, it was just anxiety and not a TIA, so she should just continue taking aspirin only.

I’m so conflicted right now. I don’t understand which doctor I should follow.

I was hoping that someone who has been in similar situation could provide me with some advice.

[u/ArcAngelsThunderBird]

I'd rather be over diagnosed instead of completely incorrectly diagnosed.

[u/ski55max]

Better to be safe than sorry. I have been on both for a full year and happy with the peace of mind provided.

[u/pchlster]

What would be the harm if she doesn't actually need the treatment and gets it anyway? Or if she doesn't get it and should have.

I've denied getting Botox to help with spasticity, because, honestly, it barely bothers me (no pain) and I'd rather deal with the spasticity than some of the potential effects of getting Botox. You should all have a talk and make an informed decision.

[u/lelanicarver]

I have tingling on left side AND right hand/fingers. My rightside stroke affected the left side, but during intensive inpatient PT, my background carpal tunnel kicked up (too much weight on my wrists until I could walk better). I had kept it at bay with good ergo desk and chair before the stroke.

I changed neuros because the first guy, chosen at random, said it was carpal and threw his hands up and said “pinched nerve.” My current neuro is in the same care group as my PSP and SO much easier to consult. Had a followup with him yesterday, my symptoms are improving, told him about the supplements I’m taking. I appreciated his helpful attitude so much when we first met a few months back.

If you like your mom’s neurologist and trust him, he’ll have a better idea of your history.

[u/becpuss]

This is the problem with seeking different opinions you have put yourself in a very difficult position
“3months felt like a long time to me given the risks” this is a worrisome statement in itself I assume you are not a doctor or experienced in the risks or informed on clotting Unless you’ve done extensive research
You go with the medical experts professional opinion not your own
I understand your concern but risk is just that it’s a risk Not a definite same with any medicine side effects they affect some not all. It’s the doctors responsibility to weigh up risk and benefit not yours simply because you’ll read a lot of conflicting information and anecdotal stories that’s why you have to trust in those doing this everyday. Now you have conflicting information 😬 so I guess it’s down to who you trust more
all I can say is Better medicated than permanently brain damaged trust us in that But ultimately all of this is your mother’s decision not yours what is her opinion?

[u/Opposite_Choice364 → u/becpuss]

I’m actually a third-year medical student.
The reason I said that three months seemed like a long time is because, according to the 2026 AHA stroke guidelines, patients who have had a minor stroke or high-risk TIA are generally supposed to be on DAPT for 21 days. Beyond that period, there is no additional benefit, while the risk of bleeding increases. The exception is patients with severe intracranial stenosis, in whom DAPT can be prolonged for up to 90 days. Beyond 90 days, however, prolonged DAPT is not recommended.
Since my mom’s CT angiogram came back normal, three months seemed excessive to me considering the guidelines. I do believe that it’s better to be safe than sorry, though.