Heart in Diabetes
A healthy heart is important
Its very important to have an healthy heart and healthy blood
vessels.People with diabetes have extra reason to be mindful
of heart and blood vessel disease,this is because diabetes
carries an increased risk for strokes,heartattacks and other
vascular diseases .Heart disease is the leading cause of death
among adults in India.
But you do have a way out .the best way is to take charge
of your health and work to prevent heart disease. Cut down
on your risk factors and this will reduce your risk for cardiovascular
disease (CVD).
What does diabetes do ?
In diabetes,the walls of the medium to large-size blood vessels
thicken and become hard and non-elastic (arteriosclerosis).
Blood vessels also become clogged with mounds of plaque (atherosclerosis).
Eventually, the flow of blood may be blocked.
what to watch out for ?
Peripheral vascular disease
This involves diseased blood vessels that supply the legs
and feet. If blood flow is only partially interrupted, cramps,
weakness, "charley horse," or pain in the legs when
walking (claudication) may result. A completely blocked artery
will cause severe pain and the legs become cold and pale.
Coronary artery disease
coronary arteries are those which involves supply to the heart.
Cramping and pain in the chest (angina) may occur when blood
flow is decreased. Complete blockage of an artery results
in myocardial infarction (heart attack). Symptoms of angina
and heart attack include chest pressure, cramping, heavy feeling
in the chest, shortness of breath, and extreme fatigue.
How to take charge?
Keep your blood sugar level in good control
Keeping your blood glucose levels in the normal range may
prevent or delay blood vessel damage.High levels of blood
insulin may also cause harm for people with type 2 diabetes.
Maintain normal blood pressure.
If you are on medication for high blood pressure,be sure to
take them regularly,You can lower your blood pressure by losing
weight and reducing salt from your diet. Some blood pressure
medications can affect blood glucose control,hence it is important
to let your cardiologist know that you are diabetic.
Do not smoke.
research proves that smoking narrows blood vessels over time.
It can also increase the levels of fats in your blood.
Reduce fats and cholesterol in your diet.
Eat a heart-healthy diet. The foods you eat affect your blood
glucose levels and those all-important blood fat levels.High
levels of blood fats can damage your blood vessels. keep them
healthy by eating less saturated fat. (those that are solid
at room temperature). If you can't lower your blood fat level
by diet alone, you can talk with your doctor about taking
fat reducing medication.
Check up with your doctor regularly.
Your doctor will check your blood pressure, blood fat levels,
and overall blood glucose control. Your blood pressure and
blood fat levels can vary. With a glycated hemoglobin blood
test,the doctor can get a picture of your average blood glucose
control over the past 2 or 3 months. If any problems show
up, you have an access to immediate medical attention
Exercise in moderation, after consulting with your doctor
Regular aerobic exercise (such as walking or swimming), which
uses your heart, lungs, and large muscles, can improve your
blood fat levels and your overall cardiovascular fitness.
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