How Diabetes is Connected to Heart Health
November is National Diabetes Month, a time to focus on understanding and managing diabetes and its related health risks. People with diabetes face unique challenges regarding heart health, and one critical tool for assessing cardiovascular health in diabetic patients is the cardiac stress test. The Medical Group of New Jersey specializes in cardiac stress tests, offering valuable insights into heart function, which is important, especially for those with diabetes.
Understanding the Diabetes-Heart Health Connection
Diabetes and heart disease are closely linked. People with diabetes are at a significantly higher risk of developing cardiovascular issues. The reason for this is because blood glucose levels over time can damage blood vessels and nerves, particularly those that control the heart. This damage often leads to complications such as coronary artery disease, which restricts blood flow to the heart and can result in a heart attack or other cardiac events.
In fact, the American Heart Association notes that adults with diabetes are two to four times more likely to die from heart disease than those without diabetes.
In addition to blood vessel damage, diabetes is often accompanied by high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity, each contributing to cardiovascular stress. Given this heightened risk, regular cardiac evaluations, including stress tests, can be crucial in helping individuals with diabetes maintain a healthy heart.
The Role of a Cardiac Stress Test
A cardiac stress test measures how well the heart performs under physical stress, often involving walking on a treadmill or pedaling a stationary bike while monitoring a person’s heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing. For diabetic patients, this test helps doctors at The Medical Group of New Jersey assess blood flow to the heart, detect any blockages, and evaluate overall heart health.
A cardiac stress test is necessary because diabetes can sometimes mask typical symptoms of heart disease, such as chest pain. For instance, people with diabetes may experience “silent” heart attacks, which are heart attacks without obvious symptoms. Regular cardiac stress tests are a proactive way to uncover issues that might not otherwise be detected until a serious event occurs.
Early Detection Matters
Early detection of heart disease allows for more effective intervention and management. The results of a cardiac stress test can inform lifestyle changes, medication adjustments, or further testing that could ultimately prevent severe complications, particulary for people suffering from diabetes. For example, if a cardiac stress test reveals reduced blood flow, doctors might recommend treatments to reduce the likelihood of a heart attack or stroke.
Managing diabetes goes hand in hand with protecting heart health. This November, as we observe National Diabetes Month, it’s a great time to consider a cardiac stress test, especially if you have diabetes. Specialists at The Medical Group of New Jersey can provide guidance and support, helping you take proactive steps toward a healthier heart and a longer life.