What is the Link Between Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease?
Diabetes and cardiovascular disease are closely linked, and heart problems are one of the biggest risks faced by people with diabetes. When blood sugar remains high for a long time, it damages blood vessels and nerves that control the heart. This, combined with high blood pressure and cholesterol, greatly increases the chance of heart attack, stroke, and other heart-related conditions. The good news is that with proper care and lifestyle changes, you can reduce these risks and protect your heart health.
Cardiovascular disease refers to conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. The most common is coronary artery disease, where cholesterol deposits (plaque) build up in the arteries, making them narrow and reducing blood flow. This can lead to heart attacks if left untreated. When plaque blocks arteries to the brain, it can cause a stroke. Peripheral arterial disease (PAD), another complication, affects blood flow in the legs and is often an early sign of heart problems in diabetics.
High blood sugar also leads to high blood pressure, which silently strains the heart. At the same time, high LDL (bad cholesterol), high triglycerides, and low HDL (good cholesterol) contribute to artery hardening. Since these issues usually show no symptoms, diabetics must regularly check their blood pressure, sugar, and cholesterol levels.
To lower the risk of heart disease, diabetics should stop smoking, maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and exercise regularly. Stress management is equally important, as stress can worsen both blood sugar and blood pressure. Doctors may recommend tests like ECG, echocardiogram, or stress tests to monitor heart health.
By keeping blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol under control, while adopting a healthy lifestyle, people with diabetes can greatly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and live a healthier life.
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