For some people, diabetes can cause problems that increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke.
Many things can lead to a heart attack or stroke. These include high blood sugar, insulin resistance, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. Lifestyle and genetics may also play a part.
But here's the good news: The things you're doing to stay healthy with diabetes also help your heart and blood vessels. That means eating healthy foods, quitting smoking, getting exercise, and staying at a healthy weight.
When you have diabetes, your risk for heart attack and stroke is even higher if you have:
Diabetes raises your risk of heart attack and stroke. But the healthy choices that help manage your diabetes also help your heart. Add a few heart-healthy habits, and you'll lower your risk of heart attack and stroke.
Plan your meals with diabetes in mind. Then think heart-healthy, and make changes if needed.
Being active is good for your diabetes and your heart. It helps manage your blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol. And it can help you stay at a healthy weight.
Get your diabetes A1c tests on schedule. If you test your blood sugar at home, do your best to keep your blood sugar within your target range.
Think about taking your blood pressure at home. Keep a record, and share it with your doctor. Your doctor will give you a goal that's right for you.
Protein in the urine can be a sign of kidney damage (diabetic nephropathy). If you have signs of kidney damage, you may also have a higher risk for heart disease.
Make sure that each doctor you see has all of your medical information, including test results. If you have questions about tests, medicines, exercise, or a healthy diet, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian.
Smoking raises your risk of a heart attack or stroke. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These programs and medicines can make it easier to quit for good.
Talk to your doctor if you are having trouble with a medicine.
Current as of: April 13, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & David C.W. Lau MD, PhD, FRCPC - Endocrinology
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