Diabetes and Coronary Artery Disease: What s the connection between these conditions?

You must be aware that diabetes is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. The American Diabetes Association states that many people living with diabetes have high blood pressure, and are two to four times more likely to have a stroke or heart attack than those who do not have this condition.

Coronary Artery Disease is a major determinant of chronic prognosis among diabetes patients. It refers to the narrowing or blockage of the heart’s blood vessels or coronary arteries due to a build-up of plaque.

How are Coronary Artery Disease and Diabetes related?

The common link between Coronary Artery Disease and Diabetes is elevated blood pressure levels. Over time, uncontrolled diabetes or high blood sugar levels lower the amounts of nitric oxide, a powerful vasodilator in the blood vessels. This, in turn, puts you at a greater risk of high blood pressure. If your blood pressure is persistently high, it can result in thickening or hardening of the arteries and disrupt the flow of blood to various organs and parts of the body – the brain and heart – leading to a stroke or heart attack. Your chances of developing CAD with diabetes increase if you have a family history of stroke or cardiovascular diseases.

Here are some additional things you must know about these two conditions –

• Diabetes patients are often diagnosed with Coronary Artery Disease at a much earlier age than others

• Cardiovascular diseases, including CAD that leads to stroke or heart attack, is a leading cause of death among diabetics

• A diabetic patient has the same risk of heart attack as someone who has had an attack earlier but does not have diabetes

How to prevent the risk of coronary artery disease if you have diabetes?

Protecting and keeping your heart healthy is of utmost importance for people with diabetes. There are many lifestyle changes, you can make to prevent cardiovascular disorders and control diabetes efficiently.

• Exercise more often to stay physically active

• Eat a heart-healthy diet

• Lose excess weight and body fat

• Keep your cholesterol levels within the target range

• Keep your blood sugar levels in check

• Keep your blood pressure levels under control

• Quit smoking

• Reduce alcohol consumption

Coronary Artery Disease and diabetes are serious medical conditions. If you are diagnosed with any of these, consult a doctor immediately. He/she can prescribe medications to manage the condition and recommend appropriate treatment to avoid complications.