Good morning @carer, I had symptoms for about 2 weeks previous to the stroke.. Nausea, nearly fainted once or twice, dizzy and headache. Unfortunately, I was in a psychiatric hospital at the time. My symptoms were ignored or brushed off as (ironically) "in my head"- even when the stroke in earnest started. I too had good (low) blood pressure, low cholesterol, and was in good physical health. I was 40 at the time of the stroke. No family history. In my recovery, the doctors could not figure out why I had had such an event. As it turned out, it was an autoimmune disorder called antiphospholipid antibody syndrome- most likely from Lyme disease. I was at first put on Plavix then eventually on Coumadin. 81mg of aspirin was added somewhere along the way. I have learned since then and through many medical situations that a second opinion is indicated, especially when one doctor is deciding that something "major" is afoot. I was diagnosed with Lupus 2 years ago. The second doc said no Lupus giving me a more thorough work up a different, better blood test. I have also gotten second opinions outside of the small circle of docs in my community. The "fresh" eyes and no ties to the first doc is sometimes beneficial. The only other thing I might suggest to do is get paper copies of medical notes and test results. As the medical journey may end up being a long one- stay organized with them! I have not and I swim in documents. I didn't learn the value of paper copies until just a few years ago. I was surprised to find how much info about me was incorrect in my medical records ( somewhere along the line I was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. It has trailed me from doctor to doctor.) My doctors were basing some of what they do on this wrong info about me. Too, when I have to go to a new doc, especially one outside of my community- I have my records to bring. I am glad you have joined this community. Both my husband and I, at the time of my stroke, were blindsided. We had no idea what questions to ask. We did not have a support. I have here, only recounted my experiences, though I hope they are helpful in some way to you.