What does the term "secondary prevention" refer to in stroke management?

The term "secondary prevention" in stroke management specifically pertains to strategies designed to prevent subsequent strokes in individuals who have already experienced a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). This is an essential component of stroke management because individuals who have had a stroke are at a significantly increased risk for experiencing additional strokes. Effective secondary prevention can involve a variety of approaches, including medication management (such as antiplatelets or anticoagulants), lifestyle modifications (such as diet and exercise), control of risk factors (such as hypertension, diabetes, and cholesterol levels), and regular follow-up care. By focusing on these strategies, healthcare providers aim to reduce the incidence of further strokes and improve the overall long-term outcomes for these patients.