19 Top Questions and Answers on Diabetes & Heart Diseases – Insights from a Heart Health Specialist

Have you been wanting to know the connection between Diabetes and Heart Disease?

If yes, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the top 19 most frequently asked questions about Diabetes and Heart Diseases. Many of these queries come from participants in our Diabetes Care Program, making this resource particularly relevant for those managing Diabetes, either for themselves or a family member. 

You’ll be pleased to know that our leading Heart Health Expert, Dr. Manthan Mehta, has expertly answered these questions, ensuring the information you find here is trustworthy and medically accurate. Let’s learn what he suggests for all your queries:

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1. How does Diabetes affect the heart?

Diabetes and heart disease are interconnected. Diabetes can lead to high blood sugar levels, causing damage to blood vessels and nerves over time.

This damage increases the risk of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), ultimately impacting the heart’s blood supply.

2. Is Cardiovascular disease the same as Heart disease?

Many people think Cardiovascular disease is the same as Heart Disease and use the terms interchangeably; however, they are not the same.

Conditions affecting the entire circulatory system, including the heart and blood arteries, are referred to as cardiovascular disease. This includes a variety of disorders, such as heart disease, stroke, and blood vessel diseases.

Heart disease, on the other hand, is unique to disorders and malformations in the heart. Conditions such as coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, and cardiac defects are included in it.

So, while all heart disorders are associated with cardiovascular diseases, not all cardiovascular diseases are associated with heart diseases.

3. What are the types of heart diseases that can develop if a person has Diabetes?

People with Diabetes are at risk of coronary artery disease (CAD), heart failure, and diabetic cardiomyopathy. CAD is particularly common, involving the buildup of plaque in the arteries that can lead to heart attacks

4. What are the risks of heart disease in people with Diabetes?

Individuals with Diabetes have a higher risk of heart disease, including an increased likelihood of heart attacks, heart failure, and complications such as poor circulation in the legs.

5. Are people with Diabetes more prone to heart attacks?

Yes, people with Diabetes are at a higher risk of heart attacks. Diabetes contributes to the formation of arterial plaque, raising the likelihood of blockages that can trigger heart attacks.

6. Are there specific symptoms of a diabetic heart attack?

Symptoms of a heart attack in individuals with Diabetes may be subtler, including fatigue, shortness of breath, and discomfort rather than acute pain. It’s crucial to seek medical attention if experiencing any unusual symptoms.

7. Can diet and exercise alone manage Diabetes and reduce heart risk?

A healthy diet and regular exercise are cornerstones in managing Diabetes and reducing heart disease risk or other cardiovascular diseases. They improve insulin sensitivity, manage weight, and promote overall cardiovascular health.

8. What lifestyle changes can help manage both diabetes and heart disease?

Lifestyle changes such as adopting a heart-healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco use can effectively manage diabetes and heart disease risk factors.

9. How can I strengthen my heart with an existing diabetes condition?

Regular aerobic exercises, such as brisk walking and a balanced diet, can strengthen the heart and improve cardiovascular health, even in individuals with Diabetes.

10. Can controlling Diabetes reduce the risk of developing heart disease?

Yes, controlling Diabetes through medication, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring can significantly reduce the risk of developing heart disease and related complications. Research has shown that a good glycemic legacy significantly prevents heart disease risk.

11. Here are some tips to take care of your heart while managing Diabetes 

• Maintain Normal Blood Sugar Levels: Keep your blood sugar levels within the normal range.
• Exercise regularly by walking, swimming, or cycling.
• A healthy diet is essential: Eat vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins, and limit bad fats and carbohydrates in your Diet.
• Check-ups regularly: Consult a healthcare professional about your heart health.
• Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol levels within the prescribed ranges.
• Quit smoking: stopping smoking is critical. Please do it now!
• Use stress-reduction tactics to manage your tension – like yoga, meditation, or other techniques like deep breathing, journaling, etc.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Prioritize Sleep Hygiene: Getting enough restful sleep is essential for heart health and blood sugar management.

12. Is heart disease reversible in people with Diabetes?

While complete reversal may be challenging, adopting a healthy lifestyle and effectively managing Diabetes can slow the progression of heart disease and improve overall cardiovascular health.

13. If a person has an existing heart disease, are they more prone to Diabetes?

Yes, individuals with heart disease may be more prone to developing Diabetes, and vice versa. Shared risk factors, such as obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and stress, contribute to this association.

14. How often should people with Diabetes get screened for heart disease?

Regular screenings for heart disease, including blood pressure, cholesterol, and electrocardiogram tests, should be part of routine healthcare for individuals with Diabetes. The frequency may vary based on individual health profiles. On average, an annual screening is a must for all.

15. Does Diabetes cause heart blockage?

Diabetes contributes to the development of atherosclerosis, leading to blockages in coronary arteries. Persistent high blood sugar levels accelerate the formation of arterial plaques, increasing the risk of heart blockages.

16. What is a silent heart attack in Diabetes?

A silent heart attack in Diabetes may occur without noticeable symptoms or with mild symptoms that are often mistaken for other conditions. Regular medical check-ups and screenings are crucial for detecting such silent events.

17. How long can one live with diabetes and heart disease?

With proper management, individuals with diabetes and heart disease can lead long and fulfilling lives. Lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and regular medical check-ups are essential for optimal outcomes.

18. What are the emerging technologies in the management of diabetes and heart disease?

Emerging technologies include Continuous Glucose Monitoring, telehealth solutions, and wearable devices that aid in real-time monitoring of blood sugar levels and cardiovascular parameters, enhancing personalized care. 

Digital therapeutics like Fitterfly have also shown promising outcomes in patients with diabetes and heart disease by controlling their HbA1c, weight, and stress levels, increasing their physical activity, and reducing overall cardiovascular risk.

19. Are there any breakthrough treatments for Diabetes that could also benefit heart health?

 Some new diabetes medications like SGLT-2i and GLP-1 RAs have shown cardiovascular benefits, reducing the risk of heart-related complications. These breakthroughs underscore the interconnectedness of diabetes and heart health in treatment strategies.

Digital therapeutics also offer a lot of benefits by treating all associated risk factors, reducing diabetes related complications , and offering a risk reduction in heart disease.

FitterTake

Dealing with diabetes can be tough. When heart diseases come into the picture, it feels even harder. But don’t worry, we’re here for you at Fitterfly.

Our team of expert coaches and doctors is experienced and very passionate about managing these conditions in the best way possible. Our Diabetes Prime Care program is all about getting to the heart of your health issues. 

We look at everything – how you live, what you like to eat, your daily routines, where you’re from, and your job – to find the right solutions for you. 

If you or someone you care about needs a diabetes plan that really fits your life, is sustainable, and, most importantly, works for you, then just give us a ring at 08069450746 or speak to us. We’re ready to help!