<s>[INST] What are the risks of a second stroke? [/INST] Certain risks that might have contributed to your stroke, for example, high blood pressure or damaged blood vessel wall, can sometimes not be reversed and therefore the risk can still persist. Although your risk of having a second stroke is higher if you have already suffered a stroke, the above changes (see post above about ‘how to reduce risks of a stroke’) should still have positive impact on reducing your risk of a second stroke. In addition, you need to make sure you do the following:

You might be prescribed certain medication after your stroke to address specific underlying medical conditions, for example, high blood pressure. You need to make sure you take the medication as prescribed.

Monitor your general health and do regular check-ups to make sure your risk factors are controlled and that the medication is working well for you.

Identify lifestyle changes that could help reduce your risks and talk to your GP on how to get help and support to achieve these (for example, stopping smoking or losing weight). Source: WEST SUFFOLK HOSPITAL. Link: https://www.wsh.nhs.uk/Services-A-Z/Stroke-early-supported-discharge/Frequently-asked-questions.aspx. Field: Neurology. Disease: Stroke </s>