A link between diabetes and heart disease is well-documented. Diabetics are two times more likely to develop heart disease or suffer a stroke, and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) notes that the comorbidity rate of heart disease or stroke for diabetics is approximately 65%.
The consequence of blood vessels becoming narrowed and hardened reduces blood supply to the heart and may result in chest pain or discomfort, known angina.
Not only is it a serious complication associated with diabetes, but heart disease is also a leading cause of mortality amongst diabetics. “There is a number of contributing factors for this. First and foremost, high blood glucose levels elevate the risk of heart attack, stroke, and coronary artery disease, by contributing to the formation of fatty deposits in the blood vessel walls,” according to Li Zhang, MD, Cleveland Clinic Florida cardiologist. This formation of fatty deposits damages the arteries and obstructs blood flow, resulting in blood vessels to harden over time. Dr. Zhang notes that diabetics typically have secondary issues, such as high blood pressure and obesity, which also contribute to the development of heart disease.
The consequence of blood vessels hardening and becoming narrow reduces blood supply to the heart and may result in chest pain or discomfort, known angina. Although angina is not a cause of permanent heart damage, it does elevate the risk of a heart attack, which occurs when the blood supply to the heart becomes obstructed. A heart attack can cause permanent damage, so it is paramount to receive immediate medical to improving odds of survival. That’s why it’s important to vigilant about symptoms that include; chest pain or discomfort, pain in your arms, back, neck and stomach, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, and light-headedness.
But one of the problems with diabetes is the nerve damage it causes. That nerve damage can mask the symptoms of heart disease. Consequently, diabetics need to have their hearts regularly monitored, as well as undergoing appropriate screenings.
If you’re worried about heart disease related to diabetes, there are lifestyle changes that can help you control the risk factors. Don’t smoke; it makes you diabetics twice as likely to develop heart disease, consume a healthy well-balanced to manage weight and control sugar levels, do everything you can to keep your blood pressure within safe levels, keep your cholesterol levels under control and exercise five days a week for 30 minutes.
Dr. Zhang recommends that you consult to your doctor to develop a diabetes action plan that includes setting goals to maintain and take control of these risk factors and reduce your chances of developing heart disease.
Zhang insists that your lifestyle plays a big part in controlling your health. Increasing your daily activity and embracing a diet that is low in saturated and trans-fats, cholesterol, salt, and added sugars would go a long way towards ensuring better health. Also, quit smoking and take your diabetes medications while monitoring your blood sugar levels closely.
