Type 2 Diabetes And High Blood Pressure: What’s The Connection?

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a health condition that is quite often seen in individuals with type 2 diabetes. The reasons for this close association between both health conditions are largely unknown. It is believed that the trigger factors for both conditions include inactivity, obesity, inflammation, and consuming a diet that is high in sodium and fats [1].

Diagnosis of High Blood Pressure

When it comes to high blood pressure, your blood is pumped through the heart and blood vessels with extra force. With the passage of time, consistent levels of high blood pressure tire the muscles of the heart, leading to its enlargement [1].

In the year 2008, 67% of adults in the United States who were aged 20 and above with self-reported diabetes had blood pressure readings that were higher than 140/90 mm Hg (millimetres of mercury) [1].

When it comes to the general population and individuals with diabetes, a blood pressure reading of 120/80 mm Hg is normal [1].

Individuals with diabetes need to have more vigilance. In such individuals, monitoring your blood pressure at least 4 times a year may be needed [1].

If you have both conditions (diabetes and hypertension), the ADA (American Diabetes Association) is of the recommendation that you must carry out self-monitoring at home, make a note of the readings, and inform your doctor about the same [1].

Risk Factors for Hypertension with Type 2 diabetes

According to ADA, developing a combination of type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure can drastically increase the risk of stroke and heart attacks, making it lethal. In addition, the chances of developing diabetic complications, such as retinopathy and kidney disease, are significantly higher [1].

Poor management of type 2 diabetes is not the sole health factor that increases your risk for hypertension. Some of the common risk factors for hypertension are listed below:

Diet high in sodium and fats

Family history of cardiovascular disease

Physical inactivity and sedentary lifestyle

High levels of cholesterol

Advanced age

Obesity

Smoking

Alcohol addiction

Kidney disease

Type 2 diabetes

Sleep apnea [1]

Pregnancy, Diabetes, and High Blood Pressure

According to a 2003 study, women with gestational diabetes are at a greater risk of developing high blood pressure. In contrast, women who manage their blood sugar levels optimally during pregnancy have a decreased risk of high blood pressure [1].

Prevention of High Blood Pressure with Diabetes

There are numerous lifestyle changes that can prevent high blood pressure. Although nearly all are dietary, physical activity and daily exercise are highly recommended [1].

Most doctors recommend brisk walking for 30-40 minutes each day. That said, aerobic activity can lead to a healthier heart [1].

AHA (American Heart Association) recommends a minimum of:

150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week

OR

75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week

OR

A combination of vigourous and moderate exercise each week [1]

Besides lowering blood pressure, exercise does strengthen the muscles of the heart. Exercise also prevents arterial stiffness. This occurs as individuals age; however, it can be accelerated by diabetes. What’s more, exercise helps in better management of blood sugar levels [1].

According to the ADA, there exist several eating plans for individuals with type 2 diabetes. Healthy dietary habits that can be effectively maintained over a long period of time are, often, the most successful. DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stopping Hypertension) diet is exclusively designed to lower blood pressure [1].

Treatment 

A majority of doctors prescribe ACE (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme) inhibitors and ARBs (Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers) initially. Though other medications are available to treat hypertension, the aforementioned ones help in the prevention and slowing of kidney disease in individuals with diabetes [2]. 

Certain blood pressure medications can worsen your lipid and blood sugar levels. Some medications can also lead to erectile dysfunction. Ask your doctor what side effects each medication has. Other drugs that are classified as diuretics or “water pills” help in getting rid of extra fluid from the body [2]. 

 

The Final Word

Type 2 diabetes can cause significant damage to arteries, making them apt targets for hardening, a condition called atherosclerosis. This can lead to high blood pressure [2]. 

References Links:

1. https://www.healthline.com/health/type-2-diabetes/hypertension#treatme
2. https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/high-blood-pressure