Author: Richard R. Heuser, M.D., FACC, FACP, FESC, FSCAI

If you’ve been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and have one or more cardiovascular risk factors, your doctor may have told you that you need to see a cardiologist. During a cardiac consultation, your cardiologist may evaluate your heart health and risk for cardiovascular disease and events. Unfortunately, type 2 diabetes doesn’t just affect your metabolism; it also affects your heart health.

Type 2 Diabetes & Your Heart Health

Heart disease and stroke are the top two causes of death in patients with type 2 diabetes. Preventing heart disease and protecting the health of your heart should be a top priority for any patient diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. If you have any of the following conditions (co-existent with type 2 diabetes), you may be at an especially high risk:

• High blood pressure
• Obesity
• Lack of exercise routine
• High LDL cholesterol and/or low HDL cholesterol
• Smoking
• Uncontrolled blood sugar

How You Can Prevent Heart Disease

Fortunately, there are many things you can do on your own – starting now – to prevent heart disease. For one, eating a Mediterranean diet has been shown to affect a 52% reduction in risk of diabetes. The results of this diet are comparable to the results seen in patients taking metformin for diabetes. Eating heart healthy can be delicious, too. See this recipe.

If you smoke or use any form of tobacco, quit now. If at all possible, exercise at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Aim for a total of 150 minutes of moderately intense exercise each week. You can also prevent heart disease by getting adequate sleep, maintaining a healthy weight, and seeing your physician regularly for recommended screenings.

Schedule An Appointment to Prevent Heart Disease: Phoenix, East Mesa & Tempe

Have more questions about how a cardiologist can help you prevent heart disease? Use this heart disease risk assessment tool to have someone from Phoenix Heart Center contact you. You can also schedule an appointment by calling 602-234-0004.

Please consult with your physician before undertaking any form of medical treatment or adopting any exercise program or dietary guidelines.