The International Diabetes Federation states that India had approximately 77 million diabetic individuals in 2019, and this number is expected to escalate to 101 million by 2030. Diabetes has become an alarming public health issue in India, and poorly regulated diabetes can amplify the likelihood of heart disease. Doctors in Park Endocrinology analyze the association between unregulated blood sugar levels and heart disease and recommend measures to evade this perilous association.
Understanding Uncontrolled Sugars:
Diabetes is a metabolic disease characterized by high blood glucose levels, resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action or both. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that allows glucose to enter cells, providing energy for the body’s functions. In diabetes, the pancreas either doesn’t produce enough insulin or the cells become resistant to insulin, leading to high blood glucose levels. Uncontrolled sugars occur when blood glucose levels remain consistently high, even when fasting or after eating.
The Link between Uncontrolled Sugars and Heart Disease:
Uncontrolled sugars can have a significant impact on heart health. Over time, high levels of glucose in the bloodstream can damage the blood vessels and nerves that supply the heart, leading to a range of cardiovascular complications. Several mechanisms contribute to this link: Increased oxidative stress: High glucose levels can lead to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can damage the cells that comprise the heart and blood vessels. This can result in stiffening and narrowing of the blood vessels, leading to increased blood pressure and reduced blood flow to the heart.
Increased inflammation:
High glucose levels can also trigger inflammation, which can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, a buildup of fatty deposits in the walls of blood vessels. This can further narrow the blood vessels and increase the risk of blood clots, leading to heart attacks and strokes. Nerve damage: Diabetes can directly damage the nerves that regulate the heart rate and
rhythm, leading to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. All of these factors can contribute to an increased risk of heart disease among people with uncontrolled sugars.
Signs and Symptoms of Uncontrolled Sugars:
The signs and symptoms of uncontrolled sugars depend on the severity and duration of high blood glucose levels. Some of the common symptoms of uncontrolled sugars include
Fatigue /Tiredness
Increased thirst and hunger
Frequent urination
Blurred vision
Slow healing of wounds
Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
Recurrent infections
However, some people may have uncontrolled sugars, even with no noticeable symptoms, making regular blood glucose testing essential for people with diabetes.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Uncontrolled Sugars:
The primary goal of treating uncontrolled sugars is to maintain target blood glucose levels to prevent complications, including heart disease. A healthcare provider may conduct several tests to diagnose uncontrolled sugars, including the A1C test, fasting blood glucose test, or oral glucose tolerance test.