Hypertension
Studies show that people with elevated blood pressure typically resist insulin and are at a much greater risk of potentially developing diabetes when compared to those whose blood pressure is within the normal range. There’s a possibility that this might be because of specific bodily processes linking both conditions, including inflammation, oxidative stress, immune system activation, blood vessel thickening, and obesity.
Thus, while hypertension may not directly cause diabetes, it can put people at a greater risk of the condition, especially if their blood pressure is above standard. Moreover, their combination can make one more susceptible to other medical issues, such as cardiovascular and kidney disease. Severe complications like vision problems, kidney failure, stroke, and heart attack may occur without proper treatment.
Healthy lifestyle habits are essential to managing blood pressure and blood sugar levels. These include maintaining a healthier weight, remaining physically active, following a well-balanced diet, limiting the consumption of alcohol, and quitting smoking. In addition, some medications can aid in managing hypertension, such as ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, diuretics, and vasodilators. The key is to seek the advice of a doctor and follow the recommended treatment options to get the desired outcome.
