Diabetes And Stroke

It is a well-known fact that diabetics are more prone to certain health problems; this includes strokes. When compared with people who are not diabetic, statistics show that the risk of stroke for diabetic patients is increased by as much as two-and-a-half times.

A stroke occurs when a blood vessel within the brain becomes damaged and is not able to supply the brain with the nutrients, blood supply and oxygen that it needs. The brain needs oxygen in order to function properly. When a stroke creates blockage, the brain can only function for approximately 3 to 4 minutes before the tissues begin to die from suffocation.

Strokes are ether caused from the rupturing of an artery (hemorrhagic stroke) or from blockage (ischemic stroke). Diabetes causes an increase in the risk of ischemic stroke, but not the hemorrhagic type. The reason for the increase is largely due to hyperglycemia. The increased sugar content present in blood vessels causes buildup within the arterial walls to occur. This is why it is important to keep glucose levels within the normal range.

Diabetes also causes other serious conditions such as increased blood pressure and heart disease. The presence of both of these also increases the likelihood of a stroke occurring. Since diabetes is often directly linked to obesity or being overweight, this is yet another indicator that can cause a stroke. The added weight can even be linked to certain diabetic medications.

The best way to fend off the possibility of stroke is to maintain proper blood glucose levels. This does more than just keep the diabetes under control. It also works to lower the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease.