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tina budde,   Thanks for submitting this interesting question/situation.  You didn't mention that he was hypertensive before the stroke, yet he is on two medications which I assume is for his pressure which was probably elevated during his hospital stay.  In addition he is on anti-platelet therapy to reduce the risk of clot formation, with his left carotid artery being the most suspicious for the etiology of his stroke.  Yet, now his pressure seems on the low side, requiring that his evening lopressor be held at times.    I'd like to address his options for each of his problems.   First, the stroke itself.  He will need some time to see how much more he improves.  Asuming he attains a good level of function, then you would consider a more aggressive approach, if that is an option.    Also, he will need good blood pressure control, not only to keep it down, but to prevent it from getting too low, which itself could pose problems and risk for further stroke.    The left carotid artery which is narrowed to 89%.  When you said left-sided stroke, I assume you meant left brain stroke, which would be from this diseased artery.  If the other side was affected, then the etiology of his strokeis is in question - it could be the other carotid (though 50% is not critical), a hypertensive stroke, a cerebral infarction, a clot from another source, and others.  I agree that it is good to get a surgical opinion, but because of his deafness, prior stroke, and his age, it's time that you become involved, at least to hear what the surgeon has to say.  If surgery is not an option, long term plavix and aspirin may be the suggested treatment.    You're going to need input from his primary care physician who is best qualified to help in any decision making process.  He will give input on what your father can tolerate from a medical standpoint.  Also, his primary should be involved in his blood pressure treatment.  He will also look at the total situation and put things together that make sense, such as consider fixing the carotid if this indeed was the cause for his stroke.   So, the real suggestion here is to get involved, despite what he says, and get his primary care physician involved also.    I hope this has been helpful.  Please review the different areas of this website for educational purposes.  A family that is more informed are able to make better decisions, or at least assist in the decision making process.   Thank you,   Martin Cane, M.D.