Will Diabetes Affect My Heart Health?

In today's fast-paced world, health concerns are at the forefront of many individuals' minds. Among the most prevalent health conditions, diabetes, and heart disease stand out due to their significant impact on overall well-being. In general, the risk of heart disease death and stroke is more than twice as high in people with diabetes.

Both diseases often coexist, sharing a complex relationship that can pose serious risks to an individual's health. In this blog post, we will discuss the connection between diabetes and heart health, understanding how one condition can influence the other. We will also talk about what preventions you should take to manage diabetes and reduce the risk of heart disease.

So, How Does Diabetes Affect Your Heart?

Over a span of time, increased blood sugar can damage blood vessels and the nerves that control your heart. As we already mentioned above, people with diabetes are more likely to have the risk for heart disease.

• Blood Sugar Levels: Uncontrolled blood sugar levels, a hallmark of diabetes, can damage blood vessels and lead to atherosclerosis, a condition where arteries become narrowed and hardened. This constriction can obstruct blood flow to the heart, causing heart attacks or angina (chest pain).
  
  
• Inflammation: Diabetes is associated with chronic inflammation, which can harm blood vessels and contribute to the buildup of plaque. This plaque accumulation increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
  
  
• High Blood Pressure: Many people with diabetes also experience high blood pressure, a significant risk factor for heart disease. The combination of high blood sugar and high blood pressure can amplify the damage to blood vessels and the heart.
  
  
• Cholesterol Imbalance: Diabetes can lead to an imbalance in cholesterol levels, favoring higher levels of "bad" LDL cholesterol and lower levels of "good" HDL cholesterol. This imbalance further promotes the development of heart disease.

(Note: Keep in mind that none of these conditions has symptoms. Better talk with your doctor, who will check your blood pressure and do a simple blood test to see if your LDL, HDL, and triglyceride levels are high.)

Along with this, these factors can also raise your risk for heart disease:

• Habit of Smoking
• Drinking too much alcohol
• Being overweight or having obesity
• Not getting enough physical activity
• Eating a diet high in saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, and sodium (salt)

How To Prevent the Risk of Heart Disease Due to Diabetes?

While the connection between diabetes and heart health is concerning, there is good news. There are so many things you can do to reduce the risk of heart disease with having diabetes, but here are some easy lifestyle changes that can help lower your risk for heart disease or keep it from getting worse, as well as help you manage diabetes. Here's what you can do:

1. Manage Blood Sugar: Keeping blood sugar levels within a healthy range through lifestyle changes, medication, and insulin therapy can help prevent damage to blood vessels and the heart.
2. Healthy Lifestyle: Adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can positively impact both diabetes and heart health. Regular exercise and weight management are also crucial.
3. Blood Pressure Control: Regular monitoring and management of blood pressure can reduce the risk of heart disease. Medications, if prescribed, should be taken as directed by your healthcare provider.
4. Cholesterol Management: Work with your healthcare team to control cholesterol levels. Statins and other medications may be recommended alongside dietary changes.

Want to know more steps on how to take care of your heart health, click here: How to Prevent Heart Disease?

How Does B & J Hospital Help With Heart or Diabetes Problems?

If you are looking for heart doctors in Navi Mumbai or heart hospitals in Navi Mumbai, it's essential to find experienced healthcare providers who specialize in cardiology. We at B & J Superspeciality Hospital, Navi Mumbai pioneer in heart/Cardiovascular treatments.

Book your appointment with us now to get the best consultations with the top cardiologists in Navi Mumbai, who can help you manage your diabetes and monitor your heart health effectively.