Just as aspirin has become standard therapy in reducing the risk of a second heart attack, it can be used under a doctor's direction by thousands of stroke survivors to decrease the likelihood of a second stroke.

Aspirin helps prevent the aggregation of platelets or blood clotting. Platelets release a prostaglandin called thromboxane. Asprin's irreversible prostaglandin blocking ability inhibits the biosynthesis of thromboxane and, consequently, reduces the tendency for blood to clot. This is the reason aspirin should not be used with prescription drugs for anticoagulation (thinning the blood) unless directed by a doctor.

An aspirin regimen may help prevent a second ischemic stroke, but will not prevent hemorrhagic strokes. In fact, aspirin use slightly increases the risk of hemorrhagic stroke. If you have a history of stroke, make sure you know what kind of stroke you had.

Aspirin is not appropriate for everyone, so be sure to talk to your doctor before you begin or modify an aspirin regimen.