Understanding Type 2 Diabetes and Ischemic Heart Disease

• Type 2 diabetes is a condition where the body becomes resistant to insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels. Ischemic heart disease occurs when narrowed heart arteries reduce blood flow to the heart.

How Type 2 Diabetes Increases Heart Disease Risk

• High blood sugar and insulin resistance can damage blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart problems.

Common Risk Factors Shared by Both Conditions

• High blood pressure, obesity, and high cholesterol are common in diabetes and elevate heart disease risk.

Importance of Managing Diabetes to Protect Heart Health

• Controlling blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol can significantly reduce ischemic heart disease risk.

Recommended Medical Follow-up and Lifestyle Changes

• Regular check-ups, medications like statins, and lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, exercise, and quitting smoking are crucial.

When to Consult a Specialist

• Consult endocrinologists for diabetes management and cardiologists for heart health, especially if symptoms arise.