'There are things I have learned the hard way' Patient experiences on lasting challenges 4 months after Transient Ischemic Attack: A qualitative study.

The sample was selected because participants reported lasting challenges at 3 months, so the findings do not describe the experience of all people with TIA. Only 15 of the 18 consented participants were included, because 3 had unconfirmed TIA diagnoses. Two participants had acute infarction on MRI, which under another definition would make their diagnosis minor stroke. Except for one participant, all lived with a partner or children, so the findings may not transfer to people living alone. The study was done in Denmark, so the healthcare system findings may not apply elsewhere. The interviewer worked at the stroke unit where participants were diagnosed, which may have affected what they said. The interview guide was not checked back with participants.

The study was partly funded by the Danish Physiotherapist Association. The authors state the funding did not influence the design, findings or interpretations, and they declared no conflicts of interest.

Do not read these themes as showing that most people with transient ischemic attack have lasting challenges. The sample was selected because they reported lasting challenges at follow-up, and the study did not test any treatment.