Diabetes and Heart Disease Treatment and Prevention of heart disease in persons with diabetes
Diabetes and Heart Disease Treatment and Prevention of heart disease in persons with diabetes
NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital
Even when taking proper care of yourself, heart disease may still occur. Specific treatment for heart disease will be determined by your physician based on:
your age, overall health, and medical history
extent of the disease
your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
expectations for the course of the disease
your opinion or preference
When risk factors are eliminated (or reduced) in a person with diabetes, the risk for heart disease may be reduced. Taking care of yourself and controlling your blood sugar can often slow down or prevent the onset of complications. Other preventive treatment measures may include:
See a physician regularly.
Have annual electrocardiograms, or EKGs (a test that records the electrical activity of the heart, shows abnormal rhythms, and detects heart muscle damage), cholesterol and blood pressure check-ups, and pulse measurement in legs and feet.
Pay attention to your symptoms and report them promptly to your physician.
Control your blood sugar levels.
Control blood pressure levels with lifestyle and diet changes, and/or medication.
Keep low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels (the "bad" cholesterol) at less than 100 mg/dL.
Control your weight.
Exercise regularly.
Eat a healthy and balanced diet.
Do not smoke.
Limit consumption of alcoholic beverages.
Always consult your physician for the most appropriate treatment plan based on your medical condition.
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