What to do Instead of Having Another Stroke

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Download the Stroke Prevention Checklist (PDF)

American Stroke Association®, a division of the American Heart Association

Getting to the Heart of Stroke™

About one in four stroke survivors suffers a second one—but it doesn’t have to be that way.

Reduce your risk. Work with your doctor to create a secondary stroke prevention plan and stick with it.

PREVENTION CHECKLIST

I plan to take these steps instead of having another stroke:

  • Know the cause of my stroke
  • Manage high blood pressure
  • Control cholesterol
  • Reduce blood sugar
  • Be active
  • Eat better
  • Lose weight
  • Stop smoking
  • Be involved in my treatment plan decisions
  • Take medications as prescribed
  • Join a program that includes exercise, education and counseling

WHEN STROKE STRIKES, EVERY SECOND COUNTS. A stroke is always a medical emergency. The longer it goes untreated the greater the chance of lasting damage.

Time lost is brain lost. Learn to recognize the signs of stroke using the letters F-A-S-T.

F.A.S.T. F is for Face Drooping, A is for Arm Weakness, S is for Speech Difficulty, T is for Time to Call 911.


© Copyright 2022 American Heart Association, Inc., a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit. All rights reserved. American Stroke Association is a registered trademark of the AHA. Getting to the Heart of Stroke is a trademark of the AHA. Unauthorized use prohibited.

The HCA Healthcare Foundation is a national supporter of Getting to the Heart of Stroke™.

Written by American Heart Association editorial staff and reviewed by science and medicine advisers. See our editorial policies and staff.

Last Reviewed: Jan 18, 2023