According to the American College of Physicians (ACP), high blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common problem in people with type 2 diabetes. It contributes to an elevated risk of heart disease and stroke, and can decrease life expectancy. Aggressive treatment of blood pressure should therefore be a priority, according to the new ACP guidelines. Blood pressure control in people with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes is just as important as blood glucose control. High blood glucose and high blood pressure often go hand in hand. Sixty to 65 percent of people who have diabetes also have high blood pressure. Blood pressure at a level of 130/80 or below, can help prevent or slow down the progression of several common long-term diabetes problems-heart disease, strokes, kidney disease and loss of vision. Studies that are currently being conducted may eventually suggest a target number lower than 130/80 for blood pressure control. Tight control over blood pressure, and not just blood glucose, should be a priority in controlling type 2 diabetes.
What Steps Can You Take?
Get your blood pressure checked at every medical visit. Remember the target number is 130/80. If your blood pressure is higher than 130/80 on several occasions, talk to your health care provider about which of the following steps might help you lower your blood pressure:
- Getting to or maintaining a healthy weight.
- Making changes in your eating plan to include
a. At least six servings of whole grains a day.
b. At least two servings of fat-free or low-fat dairy foods high in calcium (i.e. milk and yogurt).
c. At least five servings of fruits and vegetables a day
- Reducing the number of high sodium foods you eat and the amount of salt you use.
- If you drink alcohol, reducing the amount you drink
- Being as active as you can—strive for at least 30 minutes of activity a day
- Quitting smoking
Try to put the steps that make sense for you into action. Then, if your blood pressure stays high after you have made some changes, talk with your health care provider about starting a blood pressure medicine.
