The Link between High Blood Pressure and Diabetes

High blood pressure (hypertension) affects up to 60 percent of the diabetic population. If you do not have any of the complications associated with Diabetes (e.g., eye disease, kidney disease or nerve damage) high blood pressure can increase your risk of developing these conditions. If you already have one or more of these conditions, it can cause them to worsen. Managing blood pressure is just as important to your ability to manage your blood sugar levels.

People with Diabetes have a higher risk of developing high blood pressure than people who do not have Diabetes. Hypertension can lead to other serious problems, including coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease, strokes and heart failure.

Symptoms and Treatment of High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is known as the "silent killer" because, typically, there are no symptoms associated with hypertension. This is why it is essential for your doctor to check your blood pressure each time you are examined. Normal blood pressure is 120/80. Early signs of high blood pressure fall between 120/80 and 140/90. Over 140/90 signals high blood pressure.

Many doctors prescribe medication to treat high blood pressure. One of the most commonly prescribed drugs for people with Diabetes are ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) inhibitors. Many other blood pressure medicines are available, but ACE inhibitors have an added benefit for diabetics. Not only do they treat high blood pressure, but they have also been shown to prevent or delay the progression of kidney disease in those with Diabetes.

Managing high blood pressure usually requires more than one medication. Most doctors prescribe ACE inhibitors first then add other anti-hypertension drugs. Diuretics, or "water pills," are another class of drugs doctors use to treat high blood pressure in their diabetic patients. Diuretics may be prescribed alone, but more commonly are prescribed in conjunction with other anti-hypertension drugs.

Other types of medications prescribed for high blood pressure include angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB's), beta blockers, and calcium channel blockers.

Be aware that some blood pressure medications may adversely affect your blood sugar levels. If you notice this occurring, bring it to your doctor's attention immediately.

Preventing High Blood Pressure

To help prevent high blood pressure, you can implement lifestyle changes such as

• Eat healthy
• Maintain a healthy body weight/lose weight
• Exercise regularly
• Quit smoking
• Limit your salt intake

These are all things you should already be doing to help manage your blood sugar levels, as well.

By working with your Diabetes team, taking prescribed blood pressure medications and making recommended lifestyle changes, you can lower and control high blood pressure. Managing your blood pressure will help decrease your risk of Diabetes complications and cardiovascular disease.