A condition that leads to a spike in blood sugar levels, diabetes increases one’s risk of developing severe complications, including heart diseases., If not treated on time, high blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels of the heart and other organs, leading to other health issues. There are different types of heart disease:

Coronary heart disease
This condition is caused due to a build-up of plaque in the blood vessels of the heart due to increased cholesterol levels in the blood. This buildup increases one’s risk of suffering a heart attack or stroke.

Cardiomyopathy
This refers to diseases related to the heart muscles that make it difficult for it to pump blood to the body.

Heart failure
A complication of cardiomyopathy, the heart is very weak in this condition and cannot pump enough blood to different body parts.

Arrhythmia
This condition is a side effect of cardiomyopathy and leads to the heart beating very fast, very slow, or irregularly.

Having both diabetes and heart disease affects an individual in many ways, and it increases the risk of them suffering a heart attack or stroke, which can be fatal. It makes it difficult to perform daily activities. Taking appropriate self-care steps through dietary and lifestyle changes, along with following the prescribed medication and dosage, is important to manage diabetes.

Treatment methods
Treatment options for treating heart disease in diabetics depend on the severity of the condition. Some of the common ones are as listed:

Taking a prescribed amount of aspirin reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke, and it also helps minimize the formation of blood clots.

Taking a prescribed dosage of medicines as advised by the doctor can improve the condition and lower the risk of heart problems.

Surgery is required to remove blood clots from blood vessels of the heart.

Dietary changes to manage diabetes with heart problems
Follow a balanced diet and ensure regular exercise; these are important dietary and lifestyle changes to manage diabetes.

• Reduce the intake of carbohydrates to reduce blood sugar levels.
• Drink plenty of water to ensure hydration.
• Eat fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Avoid artificially sweetened products and processed and fatty foods.
• Eat small meals after adequate intervals to regulate blood sugar levels.

Lifestyle changes to manage diabetes with heart problems
Practicing healthy lifestyle habits is very important to maintain healthy blood sugar levels:

Maintain a healthy blood pressure level; the ideal blood pressure range for diabetics is under 130/80.

Individuals who are overweight or obese should work on reducing weight as it increases the risk of developing issues with heart health.

Regular exercise is important, not just to lose weight, but also to boost metabolism. Exercising for 30 mins every day increases metabolism and controls many factors in the body. Some of the conditions that can be bought under control are blood pressure levels, cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels, and heart functioning.

Smoking leads to many health issues, so it is best to avoid it.

Avoid alcohol consumption as it can shoot up insulin levels and also negate or interfere with the effects of the medication.

Find healthy ways to cope with stress, like indulging in hobbies or taking up sports.