The Effects of Diabetes on the Circulatory System
Diabetes is a chronic disease in which elevated blood sugar levels can damage both large and small blood vessels over time. This damage can affect many organs, including the heart, kidneys, eyes, and nervous system. In people with diabetes, the risk of coronary artery disease is markedly higher than in those without diabetes.
The Common Ground Between Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease
Diabetes can impair the function of the endothelium, the layer lining the inner surface of blood vessels, and can accelerate the process of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). For this reason, international guidelines strongly emphasize the importance of regularly monitoring cardiovascular health in patients with diabetes.
EECP and Circulatory Research in Diabetic Patients
EECP (Enhanced External Counterpulsation) is an FDA-approved treatment method that supports circulation in patients diagnosed with coronary artery disease and angina, through cuffs that work in sync with the heartbeat. Patients with diabetes are one of the patient groups included in EECP studies; some observational data have reported improvement in angina symptoms in diabetic patients as well.
However, EECP is not a method that treats diabetes itself or blood sugar levels. The purpose of EECP is to support angina symptoms and circulation in patients diagnosed with coronary artery disease, whether or not diabetes is present. Diabetes management requires a separate medical assessment and treatment plan.
How Can You Assess Your Cardiovascular Health If You Have Diabetes?
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes and also have symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or early fatigue on exertion, it is important to have this evaluated by a cardiologist. Managing diabetes and cardiovascular health together can have a positive effect on long-term health outcomes.
Sources: "Enhanced External Counterpulsation (EECP) Improves Biomarkers of Glycemic Control in Patients With Non-Insulin-Dependent Type II Diabetes Mellitus for up to 3 Months Following Treatment." PMID: 27179825. — General resources from the American Diabetes Association and the American Heart Association; IEPR (International EECP Patient Registry) publications. (Available on PubMed via PMID.)
Note: This content is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice.
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