What should you know about type 2 diabetes and heart disease?

Type 2 diabetes affects the way the body uses glucose. Over time, glucose levels that remain above the agreed target can contribute to changes in the lining of blood vessels. Diabetes may also occur alongside high blood pressure, altered cholesterol levels, excess weight or kidney problems; together, these factors can place additional strain on the heart and circulation.

Heart disease can involve reduced blood flow to the heart muscle, heart failure or other cardiovascular problems. The connection does not mean that every person with type 2 diabetes will develop heart disease. It does mean that prevention and regular checks are part of diabetes care. Diabetes can also affect circulation in the legs, known as peripheral arterial disease, and may increase the risk of stroke.

Keep appointments for diabetes reviews so your care team can check glucose control, blood pressure, cholesterol, kidney function and cardiovascular risk. Take prescribed medicines as directed, and discuss side effects or missed doses before changing them.

Choose regular movement that fits your health and abilities, build meals around vegetables, fibre-rich foods and appropriate portions, and avoid smoking. If you have excess weight, a clinician can help set a realistic plan; obesity and prediabetes are related health concerns that may also need attention. Check your feet and skin as advised, because reduced sensation or circulation can make injuries harder to notice.

Call emergency services for chest pressure, squeezing or pain that lasts or returns, especially with breathlessness, sweating, nausea, faintness or pain spreading to the arm, back, neck or jaw. Sudden weakness or numbness on one side, facial drooping, trouble speaking, confusion, sudden vision change or a severe unexplained headache may indicate a stroke and also needs emergency help.

Arrange prompt medical advice for new breathlessness, swelling of the ankles, unusual tiredness, palpitations, or a marked drop in exercise tolerance. Seek help for symptoms of very low glucose, such as shaking, sweating, confusion or difficulty staying awake; severe hypoglycaemia can require urgent treatment.

Ask which glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol targets apply to you, how often they should be checked, and whether your current medicines also support cardiovascular protection. You can also ask how to exercise safely, what symptoms should trigger an urgent call, and whether kidney, foot or circulation checks are due.