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Diabetes and high BP are both serious diseases, which are also related to each other. Most diabetes patients also become victims of high BP. Let us know the reasons behind this from Dr. Sunil Sekhri (Associate Consultant – Internal Medicine Max Hospital Gurugram).
- 1. Problems with blood vessels in the body- Dr. Sunil said that due to diabetes, the amount of glucose in the body increases. When excess glucose remains in the body for a long time, it weakens the walls of the blood vessels. This reduces the capacity of the blood vessels and they become hard, which is called 'arteriosclerosis'. In this condition, the chances of high BP increase.
- 2. Kidney problems- Kidney problems are also common in diabetes patients. When the kidney does not function properly, the balance of salt and water in the body gets disturbed. Due to this, blood pressure increases, which can cause high BP.
- 3. Excess weight – Obesity is a common problem among diabetics. Excess weight puts pressure on the blood vessels in the body, which causes high BP. Obesity also affects the levels of hormones, which play a role in controlling blood pressure.
- 4. Lack of exercise- If diabetes patients do not exercise regularly, the blood flow process in their muscles also becomes weak. Lack of regular exercise leads to weight gain and blood does not flow properly in the blood vessels, which increases the chances of high BP.
- 5. Diet – Diet of diabetic patients is also important. If their food contains more sugar, salt and fat, then these elements can increase blood pressure.
Prevention-
- Eat a healthy diet- consume less sugar and salt. Eat fiber rich foods like fruits, vegetables, figs, almonds, oats
- Regular exercise – Do at least 30 minutes of exercise every day, like walking, yoga or jogging.
- Keep your weight under control- Eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly to control your weight
- Regular blood pressure check- Keep getting your blood pressure checked from time to time so that treatment is possible as soon as the problem starts.
- Reduce stress- Take measures to reduce stress like meditation, yoga and pranayama.
Diabetes and high blood pressure are both serious health problems, but these diseases can be prevented with the right lifestyle and diet. Regular checkups, healthy eating and exercise are important measures to prevent both these diseases. You can avoid both these problems by making lifestyle changes along with medical advice.
