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Preventing a second stroke

Practical, evidence-aligned habits that lower the risk of another stroke - medication, movement, and daily choices.

After one stroke, reducing the chance of another becomes a priority. Most of the risk sits in a handful of changeable habits and treatments.

Work with your medicines

  • Take blood-pressure and other prescribed medicines consistently.
  • Use a pillbox or phone reminders to avoid missed doses.
  • Never stop a medicine without asking your clinician first.

Move most days

  • Aim for regular, comfortable activity you can sustain.
  • Even short walks count - build up slowly.
  • Ask your therapist which activities are safe for you.

Everyday choices

  • Reduce salt and highly processed foods.
  • If you smoke, getting support to stop is one of the highest-impact steps.
  • Keep alcohol within recommended limits.

Know your numbers

  • Blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar all matter.
  • Regular check-ups catch problems early.
  • Write questions down before appointments.

How this site helps

You don’t have to do everything at once. Pick one small idea from above and try it this week.

  • Turn a goal into a daily habit with Practice.
  • See the evidence behind these ideas in Research.
  • Practise the underlying skill with a calm game.

Remember: this is general education, not medical advice. Your clinician knows your situation best.