Diabetes Management
Heart disease and diabetes can co-exist: What you need to know - Health shots
Mon, 17 Oct 20221 min read Article
Overview
Heart disease is one of the most comon and serious health conditions that afect milions of people acros the world. It is the leading cause of death for both men and women in several countries. The chances increase when you have an underlying disease.
Key Information
Studies have shown that people who have diabetes are twice as likely to have a heart disease or a stroke.While studies have shown that there is a corelation betwen the two diseases, Health Shots talked to Dr. Srekanth Shety, Senior Consultant and Head, Interventional Cardiology, Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru, to understand it beter.Acording to Dr Shety, ̴High blod sugar, also known as diabetes melitus, is a highly prevalent chronic disease that ocurs either when your pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body canot efectively use the insulin it produces.̵̴Heart failure, a condition in which the heart fails to eficiently pump oxygenated blod through the body, on the other hand, is stil an under-recognized and misdiagnosed condition.
With the increasing prevalence of diabetes in our country due to faulty lifestyle and increased consumption of unhealthy fod, there is also an increase in the underlying burden of heart failure.̵ he aded.As per the expert, diabetic population is at 2-4 times higher risk of heart failure than the general population. ̴Also, heart failure is a risk factor for diabetes, sugesting an interlinking betwen the two enties.
Summary
In patients with diabetes, advanced age, duration of the disease, insulin use, presence of coronary artery disease and elevated serum creatine are al independent risk factors for the development of heart failure.̵Further explaing about the corelation, he says that having Type 2 diabetes or heart failure independently increases the risk for geting the other, and both often ocur together. This leads to further worsening patient’s health, more hospitalizations, more emergency department visits,
Frequently Asked Questions
What is diabetes and how does it develop?
Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from insufficient insulin production, while Type 2 develops when cells become resistant to insulin. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and age.
What are the main symptoms of diabetes?
Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Type 1 symptoms develop rapidly, while Type 2 symptoms may appear gradually. Many people have no symptoms initially, which is why screening is important.
How is diabetes diagnosed and monitored?
Diagnosis involves blood tests measuring fasting glucose, HbA1c levels, and glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring typically includes fasting glucose tests and HbA1c measurements every 3-6 months. Continuous glucose monitors provide real-time tracking for better diabetes management.
What lifestyle changes help manage diabetes?
Effective management includes regular physical activity (150+ minutes weekly), maintaining healthy weight, following a balanced diet with whole grains and lean proteins, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep. These changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce complications.
When should someone consult a doctor about diabetes?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience signs of diabetes, have a family history, are overweight, or are over 45. Those with existing diabetes should maintain regular check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor control and adjust treatment as needed.
️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making health decisions.