Treating risk factors to prevent stroke
Your GP will be responsible for your care after discharge and will be your main point of contact once you arrive home.
People who have had a stroke are at greater risk of having a second stroke. Therefore, your GP will make sure that you are receiving treatment for any risk factors that you may have.
These may include:
- reducing the stickiness of your blood - this is done using blood-thinning medication, most commonly warfarin or aspirin
- lowering cholesterol levels - high cholesterol is usually managed using medication, most commonly statins
- reducing high blood pressure - high blood pressure is usually controlled using medication
- irregular heart beat (atrial fibrillation) - this will be monitored closely
- preventing dehydration.
High blood pressure can increase the risk of stroke. People with high blood pressure may not have any symptoms, so it is important to check your blood pressure regularly.
Your GP should have a register of all patients at risk of stroke. You should be reviewed by your GP every six months following your stroke. You should also have a flu jab each year, regardless of your age.
