In linking heart disease and diabetes, a renowned Gurgaon cardiologist says:
“People who have diabetes develop a cardiovascular disease called ‘diabetic heart disease’ (DHD). Compared to non-diabetics, people who have diabetes at a younger age have a higher risk of heart disease.”
This statement applies to both type 1 and type 2 patients, both women and men. Increased blood glucose levels increase the risk. The high level of glucose in the blood leads to the deposition of fatty materials on the inner walls of the blood vessels, leading to the hardening of the blood vessels and the obstruction of a condition known as atherosclerosis.
Like alcohol, smoking, diabetes, and high blood cholesterol, diabetes increases the risk of heart attacks. When these elements are combined with different risks, such as obesity, diabetes causes damage. Patients with diabetes are less receptive to cardiac treatment such as bypass surgery and angioplasty.
How are diabetes and heart disease related?
There are four common types of heart disease in people with diabetes:
1. Ischemic heart disease: This is due to the thickening or hardening of the walls of the arteries, which are the blood vessels that carry blood to the heart. Plague is deposited on the walls of blood vessels and is known as atherosclerosis.
2. Congestive heart failure: It occurs when a heart cannot pump blood adequately to meet the body’s needs. This occurs due to congestive heart failure in which fluid builds up within the cells of the body.
3. Cardiomyopathy: This is a situation where the heart muscles are damaged, leading to improper heart function.
4. Peripheral arterial disease (PAD): This disease occurs when the blood vessels in the legs narrow due to blockage of fat deposits, causing poor blood circulation in the feet and legs. This can lead to amputation of the feet or leg, or even increase the chances of a heart attack.
What is the perspective? – Diabetes and heart disease
Patients who have diabetes can reduce their risk of heart disease by talking to their doctor about any prescription drugs, either to prevent or control risk factors, and by making certain lifestyle changes. Lifestyle changes include a healthy diet, physical activity, and stress management.
To take action
If you are addicted to smoking, it is time to quit now. Check with your doctor and talk about it. If you’ve tried quitting before, it’s not too late. Many people have tried to quit smoking several times before starting a good habit.
Almost everyone with diabetes can benefit from exercising more. It keeps your heart healthy and controls your blood sugar level. Even a brisk daily walk for 20 minutes is fruitful. Then there is no longer a need for a gym.
If you are inactive, ask your doctor how to get started. Your doctor will tell you what to do safely.
Most diabetic patients take medications to lower blood pressure or improve cholesterol levels. The doctor recommends a low daily dose of aspirin to protect against heart disease.
Make sure you stay in contact with your doctor and be regular with your checkups. Keep all your appointments and let your doctor know how you are doing. Together they can build a healthy heart.