A Healthy Heart Some hiccups but on the whole things went well

Discussion Topics The link between diabetes and heart. and blood vessel problems. Signs of heart and blood vessel problems. Preventing and controlling heart and blood vessel problems.

Heart and Blood Vessels Your heart is a muscle that pumps blood through your body. Your heart pumps blood that carries oxygen to large blood vessels ─ called arteries; and small blood vessels ─ called capillaries. Other blood vessels ─ called veins ─ carry blood back to the heart.

Heart and Blood Vessel Problems Adults with diabetes are two to four times more likely to have heart disease or suffer a stroke than people without diabetes. High blood sugar in adults with diabetes increases the risk for heart attack, stroke, angina, and coronary artery disease. Diabetes can also cause poor circulation or blood flow in the legs and feet.

Heart and Blood Vessel Problems People with type 2 diabetes also have high rates of high blood pressure, lipid problems, and obesity. Smoking doubles the risk for these and other problems in people with diabetes.

Heart and Blood Vessel Problems You are more likely to have heart and blood vessel problems if you Smoke cigarettes. Have high blood pressure. Have high LDL cholesterol. Have other fats in your blood.

Heart and Blood Vessel Problems What is atherosclerosis? This condition occurs when cholesterol is too high and the insides of large blood vessels become narrowed or clogged. Narrowed or clogged blood vessels make it harder for enough blood to get to all parts of your body and can cause problems.

Signs of Heart and Blood Vessel Problems What is cholesterol? Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that your body needs. Cholesterol is one of the substances that our bodies create and use to keep us healthy. However, when you have too much cholesterol in your blood, it can build up on your artery walls.

Signs of Heart and Blood Vessel Problems Why do some people have high levels of cholesterol? LDL (bad) cholesterol is produced naturally by the body. Some people inherit genes that cause them to make too much cholesterol. Some ethnic groups are more prone to high cholesterol. Eating foods with saturated fat or trans fats also increases the amount of LDL cholesterol in your blood.

Signs of Heart and Blood Vessel Problems You may be having serious heart and blood vessel problems if you Feel dizzy. Have sudden loss of sight. Slur your speech. Feel numb or weak in one arm or leg.

Signs of Heart and Blood Vessel Problems Danger signs of circulation problems include Chest pain or pressure. Shortness of breath. Swollen ankles. Irregular heartbeat. Pain in your legs when you walk.

Preventing and Controlling Heart and Blood Vessel Problems Eat right and be physically active. Choose a healthy diet that is low in salt. Work with a dietitian to plan healthy meals. If you’re overweight, talk with your health care provider about how to safely lose weight. Ask about a physical activity or exercise program. Stop smoking if you smoke.

Preventing and Controlling Heart and Blood Vessel Problems Don’t use tobacco or other tobacco products. When you have diabetes and also use tobacco, the risk of heart and blood vessel problems is even greater. One of the best choices you can make for your health is to never start smoking ─ or, if you smoke, to quit.

Preventing and Controlling Heart and Blood Vessel Problems Manage your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Get your blood pressure and cholesterol checked by your doctor regularly. You may need medicines to control your blood pressure, cholesterol, or both. Healthy food choices ─ including choosing lower-salt and low-fat options ─ may help you lower your numbers. Increase your physical activity.

Preventing and Controlling Heart and Blood Vessel Problems What can people with diabetes do to lower their risk? Reach and stay at a healthy weight. Get at least 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity 5 or more days each week. Eat foods that are low in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, salt, and added sugars. Stop smoking. Take medications as prescribed.

Learning About Diabetes Learn How to Manage Your Diabetes Ask your doctor for a referral to a diabetes self- management education program recognized or accredited by the American Diabetes Association or the American Association of Diabetes Educators.American Diabetes AssociationAmerican Association of Diabetes Educators

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