Most diabetics experience high blood pressure, which has unpleasant symptoms, including chronic exhaustion, blood clots, or an enlarged heart. All of these symptoms can be detrimental to your daily life.
High Blood Pressure and Diabetes
Does having high blood pressure and diabetes go hand in hand? No, if you have diabetes, it doesn't mean you'll experience blood pressure irregularities or experience high blood pressure at some point in your life. However, there's a high chance you will.
People with high blood pressure struggle with increased blood flow transferring to the heart. This results in the weakening of the heart muscle and may enlarge it over time.
What's the recommended blood pressure for diabetes patients? Most patients should have between 130/80 and 140/90 blood pressure.
To ensure that your blood pressure is in that range, you need to have it screened by a medical professional regularly.
A healthy adult should check their blood pressure every 18 to 24 months. If you have diabetes, your blood pressure should be checked every 3 to 4 months.
What are the risks of high blood pressure?
Why should you keep track of blood pressure levels if you have diabetes? You should because diabetes is caused by insulin resistance. Since people with diabetes are resistant to insulin, sugar builds up in the blood. This causes your body to retain fluids and salt, which increases the risk of high blood pressure. Over time, this can damage your blood vessels and cause the walls to thicken. If this happens, it may cause a heart attack or stroke.
How long will I live with high blood pressure?
When dealing with diabetes and high blood pressure, life expectancy depends on many factors, including your age, gender, and overall health.
According to a study from the University of Chicago, getting treatment as soon as possible is crucial for people diagnosed with hypertension.
Blood Pressure Reduction Tips
- Many lifestyle changes can positively impact your blood pressure, and these changes often play a crucial role in managing diabetes as well. The majority of these lifestyle adjustments are dietary. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help control blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Regarding specific dietary tips, it's wise to reduce salt intake, as excessive sodium can raise blood pressure. Opting for foods high in potassium, such as bananas, beans, and leafy greens, can be beneficial as potassium helps to counterbalance sodium. Including sources of omega-3 fatty acids like fatty fish (salmon, mackerel) and nuts is also advantageous for heart health.
- Daily exercise is highly recommended. For starters, engaging in moderate activities like taking a 30 to 40-minute walk daily can be an excellent beginning. Physical activity helps to strengthen the heart, making it more efficient in pumping blood. This, in turn, can lower the pressure on the arteries. If you still need to get a regular exercise routine, it's essential to consult your physician and develop an exercise plan that you are comfortable with. Your physician can guide you on the type and level of safe and effective exercise for your specific health condition.
- Maintaining a healthy weight and reducing stress through meditation or yoga can also contribute positively to lowering high blood pressure and managing diabetes. It's also imperative to monitor blood pressure and blood glucose levels regularly and to adhere to any medications prescribed by your doctor.
Understanding how to lower high blood pressure while managing diabetes involves dietary changes, regular physical activity, stress reduction, and proper medical management. These lifestyle changes can empower you to take charge of your heart and glucose health for a happier and healthier life.
Can you reverse high blood pressure?
There's no actual cure for diabetes. However, people can reverse their high blood pressure. But, it requires significant dietary changes and may require some weight loss. You can also keep normal sugar levels in your blood with the proper medication.
If you need to limit sugar intake, your diet should be as heart-friendly as possible.
That means you need to limit your intake of:
- sodium
- red meat
- high-fat products
- dairy products
- saturated fats
Before making significant dietary changes, you should discuss them with your doctor first.
It is a good idea to download a list of food for diabetes and high blood pressure to see if you are meeting your requirements. Having a plan in front of you will help you remember what foods are part of a diabetic-friendly diet.
How do Diabetic Socks Help?
When you increase your physical activity, you'll need to protect your feet as much as possible. Diabetic socks will improve circulation, keep your feet safe from cuts, reduce injuries, and lower the risk of developing blood clots and infections. They promote healthy blood circulation to the heart and prevent blood from flowing reversely.
Get your pair of diabetic socks and keep your blood flow in check!
You should immediately seek medical attention if you have chronic high blood pressure. Timely checkups can prevent complications in the future!
Small lifestyle changes and regular checkups can go a long way in lowering your blood pressure. To ensure you provide the best care for your feet, purchase a new pair of diabetic socks today!
Diabetic socks can help you improve your foot circulation and stop blood clots before they form.
How can you order a pair? Have a look at our range of diabetic socks, pick how many pairs you want, and have the socks delivered to your door. Ease foot pain by ordering your pair today.
