SL Raheja Hospital is located in the suburb of Mahim in Mumbai It is associated with Fortis Hospitals and has established a high standard of healthcare services and medical facilities since its inception. We are one of the best multispecialty hospitals in Mumbai
S.L. Raheja Hospital (A Fortis Associate) Raheja Rugnalaya Marg, Mahim (W), Mumbai, Maharashtra - 400016, India.
Emergency No- 022-66529888
What is the common link between diabetes, heart disease, and stroke?
It is a known fact that people suffering from diabetes are at high risk for multiple health complications that include heart disease and stroke. Most of these patients eventually develop these conditions that can be fatal. Statistically, the leading cause of death in India is heart disease and stroke.
Also known as cardiovascular diseases (CVD), heart diseases have occupied the top position for the highest number of deaths for more than 2 decades in a row. Our country has the second-highest in the world in terms of the number of patients with diabetes, and this number is steadily rising. 1 in every 6 people suffering from diabetes in the world is from India.
The specialists at S.L. Raheja Hospital explain that if a person is suffering from diabetes, the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and stroke is increased by more than double as compared to that of a person who does not have diabetes. Heart disease is the most common cause of death in people with type 2 diabetes.
The diabetologists at S.L. Raheja Hospital - A Fortis Associate go on to explain the link between diabetes and heart diseases. People with diabetes suffer from high blood sugar levels and this causes gradual damage to the blood vessels as well as the nerves that control them. The main cause of heart disease is when the circulation of blood to the heart is slowed or interrupted due to a blocked artery. Heart diseases can cause chest pain or angina, heart attacks, or even sudden death.
People suffering from diabetes are almost 2 to 4 times more likely to develop cardiovascular diseases than others. While heredity is the main cause, factors such as bad cholesterol levels in the blood and obesity are causes other than diabetes for the development of cardiovascular diseases.
Obstruction in blood flow to the brain or blockage in any of the blood vessels results in a stroke. This is usually caused due to the presence of blood clots or blockages within the arteries. The neurology team at S.L. Raheja explains that diabetes increases the chance of developing a stroke over time. This occurs due to high glucose levels that gradually damage the blood vessels in the body thus increasing the chance of a stroke.
Diabetes increases the risk of plaque deposition in arteries which leads to the formation of fatal blood clots. Almost 75% of people with diabetes eventually suffer from life-threatening clot-related issues.
Hence, the link between diabetes, heart disease, and stroke begins with elevated blood sugar levels that cause damage to the arteries over time. The buildup of fatty material on the insides of the blood vessels leads to atherosclerosis that eventually blocks the blood flow to the heart or brain leading to heart attack or stroke.
S.L. Raheja Hospital has some of the leading diabetologists and neurologists in Mumbai that work as a team to manage and treat diabetes and its related complications. The specialists recommend small but significant lifestyle changes that can help prevent heart diseases and also successfully manage diabetes more effectively.
Active lifestyle
It is recommended to be active for a minimum of 30 minutes a day for five days a week through walking or exercise. Light activity during prolonged sedentary timeframes can also help control blood sugar levels.
A heart-healthy diet
Foods that are high in saturated and trans fats, salt, and cholesterol must be avoided or consumed in controlled portions. Fried foods, red meat, and eggs that are high in cholesterol must be considerably reduced. A diet rich in high-fiber foods, including green vegetables, whole grains, and seasonal fruits can successfully manage diabetes.
Optimum weight
It is important to maintain a healthy weight according to age and gender. A healthy BMI can help reduce blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Even a small percentage of weight loss can help improve body parameters. This can be achieved by dietary modifications and lifestyle changes.
Controlled blood sugar levels
People with diabetes should ideally maintain blood glucose levels within the target range that can be determined by the diabetologist. It is important to maintain a diet and exercise regimen that can control blood glucose levels.
Controlling hypertension
The ideal BP level in an adult is 120/80 mmHg. The consulting doctor can recommend lifestyle changes and medications if necessary to lower elevated blood pressure levels.
Quit smoking
People who smoke and those who have heart disease or diabetes are at a high risk of health complications. Smoking increases the risk of the development of unwanted blood clots and also damages the lining of blood vessels which can increase clot formation. It is important to consult your doctor about getting help to quit smoking.
Patients with diabetes will most likely develop heart diseases and are at an increased risk for developing stroke, this can be managed by including lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and healthy weight among others. This can reduce the risk of life-threatening complications in patients suffering from diabetes.
Comments
Leave A Reply