Diabetes and High Blood Pressure

Yes, diabetes and high blood pressure often occur together. The risks of developing high blood pressure, also called hypertension, are significantly increased in those with diabetes for a few reasons:

• Insulin Resistance – This underlying mechanism in type 2 diabetes causes narrowing of blood vessels over time, forcing the heart to pump harder against higher resistance and pressure.

• Kidney Damage – Uncontrolled high blood sugar levels damage blood vessels in kidneys, reducing their ability to effectively flush fluids and salts from the body, leading to fluid retention and pressure rise.

• Nerve Damage – Autonomic neuropathy from long-term high sugars can dysfunction signals controlling heart and blood vessels, disrupting the body’s ability to appropriately adapt to situational blood flow needs.

• Weight Issues – Excess weight typical in type 2 diabetes adds strain on the circulatory system and alters hormone signals, increasing risks of hypertension.

• Cholesterol Imbalance – Dyslipidemia common with diabetes hardens arteries, makes blood more viscous and prone to pressure elevations.

Fortunately controlling weight, glucose levels, kidney function and cholesterol through diet, lifestyle and medications can substantially lower likelihood of developing high blood pressure with diabetes or improve control if already present. Still, regular blood pressure screening for diabetes patients is crucial to reduce chance of heart attack, stroke and other complications tied to both conditions.