Treatment of Heart Disease in Diabetics
Type 2 diabetes is a common condition characterized by increased
blood sugar, resistance of the body to insulin, and decreased insulin
production. Insulin normally functions to move sugar into cells. When
insulin resistance occurs, blood sugar build up results. Persons diagnosed
with type 2 diabetes are likely at an increased risk for cardiovascular
conditions, such as a heart attack. High blood pressure, obesity, and
smoking also increase the risk for cardiovascular conditions in persons
with diabetes. Persons with diabetes may not have any symptoms to
indicated that there is an increased risk for coronary heart disease.
Smokers are encouraged to quit for prevention of cardiovascular conditions.
Diet and exercise also help.
Persons with type 2 diabetes may be
advised to take aspirin daily for prevention of cardiovascular events.
Medications for high cholesterol and high blood pressure also may be
prescribed to reduce the risk of heart conditions. Angiotensin converting
enzyme (ACE) inhibitor medications, such as lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril)
and ramipril (Altace), are medications for treatment of high blood pressure.
These medications may be prescribed even for persons with diabetes
without elevated blood pressure, because of their benefits in preventing
cardiovascular events.