How Diabetes Affects the Heart!

Diabetes is one of the most common health conditions, what many people don’t realize is how closely it is linked to heart disease. High blood sugar over time damages blood vessels, making heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure far more likely.

When blood sugar remains high, it damages the inner lining of blood vessels and accelerates the buildup of fatty deposits. This condition, called atherosclerosis, narrows the arteries and reduces blood flow to the heart. Diabetic patients are two to four times more likely to develop heart disease than those without diabetes.

Warning Signs to Watch For
People with diabetes should be alert for common cardiac symptoms, which may include:

•    Chest pain or heaviness
•    Unusual fatigue
•    Shortness of breath
•    Palpitations
•    Swelling in the legs

Sometimes, diabetics experience silent heart attacks, where symptoms are minimal or easily mistaken for indigestion or stress. This makes regular screening even more important.

The IMH Approach: Cardio-Diabetes Care
At International Modern Hospital (IMH), Dubai, our specialists treat diabetes and heart disease together through a coordinated program. This includes:

•    Regular cardiac screening (ECG, echocardiography, calcium scoring) for diabetic patients.
•    Joint consultations with cardiologists and endocrinologists.
•    Tailored diet and lifestyle plans.
•    Early treatment of high blood pressure and cholesterol, which often accompany diabetes.

This integrated approach helps patients manage both conditions effectively, reducing the risk of sudden cardiac events.

Prevention Is Possible
The most effective way to reduce risk is through consistent control of diabetes:

•    Monitoring blood sugar regularly
•    Following a balanced diet
•    Exercising regularly
•    Taking medications as prescribed
•    Attending scheduled check-ups

By managing diabetes well, patients can protect not only their pancreas but also their heart. Diabetes may be a common condition, but its impact on the heart can be serious if left unchecked. With early detection, lifestyle changes, and specialized care, it is possible to reduce risks and live a healthy, active life.