Many people with diabetes also have heart disease. When you control your diabetes by controlling your blood sugar, getting more exercise, and eating a healthy diet, it can also be good for your heart.
It is critical to understand the risks and how to reduce them.
In addition to diabetes, do you also have:
- With a waist circumference of more than 89 cm for women and more than 102 cm for men
- Lower high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels
- Elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels or triglycerides (another type of lipid in the blood)
- High blood pressure
- Blood pressure above 140/90
If you are unsure, your doctor can help you check these indices.
Likewise, do you:
- Smoke
- have a family member with heart disease
- consume foods high in saturated fat, cholesterol and sugar
Doctors need this information to help you develop a better heart health plan.
People with diabetes are at risk for:
- Coronary heart disease: Coronary arteries are located on the surface of the heart. Fatty deposits form atheromatous plaques that narrow the passage. Myocardial infarction is induced when plaque ruptures occur. Better exercise, a healthy diet, and not smoking are essential. Myocardial infarction can arise from coronary heart disease or diabetes. Because it is dangerous and fatal, it requires aggressive management and follow-up.
- Congestive heart failure: This is a continuously progressive disease in which the heart loses its ability to pump blood. Its main symptoms are dyspnea during exercise and swelling of the legs.
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Many people will experience both conditions.
Take action
If you smoke, it’s time to quit. Set a date and talk to your doctor. If you’ve given up before, it’s not too late. Many people have made multiple attempts before quitting the habit for good.
Almost everyone with diabetes can benefit from stepping up their exercise. Not only is it good for your heart, but it can help control your blood sugar. Even brisk walking can work, so you don’t need to go to the gym.
If you lack energy, tell your doctor you want to start exercising. He will create a personalized activity plan for you.
Some people with diabetes need to take medications to lower high blood pressure or improve cholesterol levels. Your doctor may recommend that patients take a small daily dose of aspirin to prevent heart disease.
Make sure medical care is in place. Visit your doctor and let him know how you are doing. Work together to have a healthier heart.