Diabetes increases a person’s risk of cardiovascular disease by more than double compared to the general population. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for those with type 2 diabetes. One can reduce their risk of heart disease in a number of ways. The first step in preventing heart disease and diabetes is realizing their connection.
UNDERSTANDING THE CONNECTION BETWEEN HEART DISEASE AND DIABETES
It is true that people with diabetes have a higher risk of heart disease than people without the disease. Over time, high blood sugar can harm nerves and blood vessels, raising the risk of cardiovascular problems.
Diabetes frequently coexists with other heart disease risk factors, such as obesity, high blood pressure, and excessive cholesterol levels. For diabetics, these variables raise the risk of issues related to the heart much more.
Diabetes patients may not always have the classic warning indicators of heart disease, such as discomfort or chest pain. Instead, they may experience quiet symptoms of the illness. Rather, symptoms such as dyspnea, exhaustion, or nausea might be more prevalent, necessitating prompt identification and treatment.
PRECAUTIONS TO CONSIDER
- Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, blood pressure and cholesterol is essential for managing diabetes and reducing the risk of heart disease.
- Adopting a healthy lifestyle is key to managing both diabetes and heart health. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress, avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol.
- These lifestyle modifications can help control diabetes and reduce the risk of heart diseases.
- Both heart disease and diabetes may need medication. To prevent these diseases from getting worse and even becoming life-threatening, it’s crucial to adhere to the treatment schedule that your doctor has advised.