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Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood glucose levels. It occurs when the body fails to make enough insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it does make.
Heart disease encompasses a range of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, with coronary artery disease being the most common form.
The link between diabetes and heart disease is well established, as people with diabetes face a higher risk of developing cardiovascular complications. This synergistic relationship underscores the importance of comprehensive management strategies to address both conditions simultaneously, thereby improving overall health and reducing the burden of this chronic disease on individuals and healthcare systems worldwide.
Also Read: Kidney Health: 6 Simple Ways To Protect Your Kidneys From Stress
Understanding the complex interplay between diabetes and heart disease is crucial for effective prevention, early intervention, and holistic patient care.
Dr Anchal Chowdhury, Consultant – Internal Medicine, Yathartha Super Specialty Hospital, Noida Extension explains the complex relationship between diabetes and heart health and how to stay healthy.
Reasons
Diabetes:
Type 1 diabetes: results from an autoimmune attack on the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas with a genetic predisposition.
· Type 2 diabetes: Rooted in insulin resistance or deficiency, often triggered by lifestyle factors such as obesity and physical inactivity.
Heart disease:
Coronary artery disease (CAD): Causes narrowing of arteries due to plaque build-up, restricting blood flow to the heart.
Cardiomyopathy: Weakening of the heart muscle affects its pumping function.
· Arrhythmias: Irregular heartbeats affecting rhythm and performance.
Symptoms
Symptoms of diabetes: include polyuria (frequent urination), polydipsia (excessive thirst), polyphagia (increased appetite), fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds.
Symptoms of heart disease: chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, fatigue, palpitations, dizziness, and cold skin.
Interrelated effects of diabetes and heart disease:
· High blood sugar in diabetes damages blood vessels, increasing susceptibility to plaque build-up in coronary artery disease.
Diabetes induces inflammation, accelerating the progression of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease.
· Common diabetes-related conditions such as high blood pressure and cholesterol worsen the risk of coronary artery disease.
· Coronary artery disease reduces blood flow to vital organs, complicating diabetes management, especially for the kidneys.
Diabetes compromises the immune system, increasing the risk of heart disease.
Navigating the path to wellness involves implementing key strategies to address the interconnected challenges of diabetes and heart disease:
1. Tight glycemic control: Achieving and maintaining optimal blood sugar levels is essential. This is accomplished through a combination of prescribed medications, adherence to a proper diet and regular exercise.
2. Healthy Lifestyle: Adopting a healthy lifestyle is essential to reduce the risks associated with diabetes and heart disease. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, ensuring adequate sleep and managing stress effectively.
3. Weight Management: Recognizing the important role of weight in the development of both diabetes and heart conditions, gradual and sustainable weight loss through positive lifestyle changes is essential.
4. Quitting smoking: Recognizing smoking as an important contributor to the development and progression of both diabetes and heart disease, early cessation is best for reducing associated risks.
5. Regular monitoring: Vigilant monitoring of blood pressure and cholesterol levels is important for early detection and effective management of these important risk factors, preventing health complications of both diabetes and heart disease.
6. Comprehensive medical care: Close collaboration with health care professionals is necessary to ensure optimal management. By actively participating in comprehensive medical care, individuals can address the multifaceted aspects of diabetes and heart health, tailoring interventions to their unique needs.
The complex relationship between diabetes and heart health requires a holistic approach. By understanding cause-and-effect dynamics, making healthy lifestyle choices, and engaging in collaborative care with health care professionals, people with diabetes can chart a course toward improved heart health and overall wellness.
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