Heart Health and Diabetes: What Every Patient Should Know
Diabetes and heart disease are closely connected. In fact, adults with diabetes are 2 to 4 times more likely to develop heart disease or suffer a stroke than those without diabetes. Understanding this connection—and knowing what steps to take—can significantly reduce your risk and protect your long-term health.
How Diabetes Affects Heart Health
When blood sugar levels remain high over time, they damage blood vessels and nerves that control the heart. Diabetes also often occurs alongside other conditions that increase heart risk, including:
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High blood pressure
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High cholesterol
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Obesity
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Inflammation of blood vessels
Together, these conditions increase the likelihood of:
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Heart attacks
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Stroke
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Coronary artery disease
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Poor circulation
This is why diabetes management is not just about blood sugar—it is also about protecting your heart.
What Patients Can Do to Control Diabetes and Improve Heart Health
Managing diabetes and reducing heart disease risk requires a comprehensive approach. Key actions include:
1. Keep Blood Sugar Under Control
Maintaining stable blood glucose levels helps prevent damage to blood vessels and organs. This includes:
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Regular A1C testing
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Medication adherence
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Monitoring daily blood sugar levels
2. Control Blood Pressure and Cholesterol
High blood pressure and cholesterol greatly increase cardiovascular risk. Patients should:
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Monitor blood pressure regularly
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Follow treatment plans for cholesterol management
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Take prescribed medications as directed
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Weight management improves insulin sensitivity and reduces strain on the heart. Even modest weight loss can significantly improve heart and metabolic health.
4. Stay Physically Active
Regular physical activity helps:
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Lower blood sugar
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Improve cholesterol levels
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Strengthen the heart
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Reduce inflammation
5. Attend Regular Preventive Checkups
Routine medical visits allow early detection of heart-related complications and help prevent serious outcomes.
How Lumberton Internal Medicine Group Can Help
At Lumberton Internal Medicine Group, we provide comprehensive, personalized care for patients managing diabetes and heart health. Our approach focuses on prevention, early detection, and long-term wellness.
We offer:
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Diabetes management and A1C monitoring
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Blood pressure and cholesterol management
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Weight management support
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Preventive cardiovascular screenings
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Personalized treatment plans tailored to your health goals
Our team works closely with each patient to help reduce complications, improve quality of life, and support healthier outcomes.
Take Control of Your Health Today
If you have diabetes—or are at risk—proactive care is the key to protecting your heart. Managing diabetes effectively can significantly lower your risk of heart disease and stroke.
Lumberton Internal Medicine Group is here to support you every step of the way with expert care, preventive services, and personalized treatment plans.