The new guidelines come from the German Society for Neurology in cooperation with Austrian and Swiss experts. The focus is on drug recommendations and lifestyle changes after the first stroke.
High risk of another stroke
Every 20 minutes someone in Austria suffers a stroke Austrian Stroke Society. Although fewer people die from a stroke today than 30 years ago, the risk of a second stroke has been high for years, according to the Austrian neurologist Stefan Greisenegger, who was involved in the guidelines for stroke prevention.
“We know that the risk of stroke is highest relatively shortly after an ischemic stroke caused by a blockage in an artery,” says Greisenegger. The risk of suffering another stroke within the first year is around six percent. Even in the four years after that, the risk of suffering another stroke, a heart attack or another vascular problem remains high.
So it’s about preventing the second stroke. When it comes to medication, the new guidelines focus on blood pressure, cholesterol levels and blood clotting after the first stroke.
What you can do yourself
The patient can also do something. If your body allows it, you should exercise for at least half an hour about three to four times a week, such as walking, running or cycling. You should also change your diet, avoid animal fats and use olive oil and eat more fruit and vegetables.
However, according to Greisenegger, a lipid-lowering drug against LDL cholesterol is still necessary for stroke patients. He also recommends stopping smoking immediately, abstaining from alcohol and – if necessary – going on a diet. Obesity and poor nutrition are known to lead to type 2 diabetes – and that is a dangerous pre-existing condition, according to Greisenegger.
Special case diabetes
“Diabetes is a major risk factor for stroke. We see diabetes as a risk factor in about 15 percent of strokes, because the disease mainly affects the vessels.”
Type 2 diabetes patients need special attention after a stroke. If you have type 2 diabetes and have not had a stroke before, you should take precautions. Greisenegger recommends doing a lot of sport, even if you are older, and eating as healthily as possible. This also helps as a prescription against the first stroke.