Overview of the current status of diabetes and hypertension
Currently, the incidence of diabetes and hypertension is on the rise worldwide. According to relevant studies, the prevalence of diabetes and hypertension is increasing in many countries. For example, in China, the prevalence of hypertension is about 25%, and the prevalence of diabetes is about 10%.
Diabetes and hypertension are closely related and affect each other. Diabetic patients are often more likely to suffer from hypertension because diabetes can cause vascular damage and metabolic disorders, increasing the risk of high blood pressure. Conversely, high blood pressure can also aggravate the condition of diabetic patients and increase the incidence of complications such as cardiovascular disease. The two interact with each other, posing a serious threat to the health of patients.
Common symptoms of diabetes combined with hypertension
Symptoms related to vascular disease
Diabetes combined with hypertension may lead to vascular dysfunction and damage, which may cause a series of physical symptoms. For example, peripheral arterial damage may manifest as generalized edema, skin itching and ulceration. Retinal function may also be abnormal, resulting in decreased vision, blurred vision, and even blindness in severe cases. In addition, it may also affect the cardiovascular and cerebrovascular systems, leading to myocardial ischemia, angina pectoris, and even serious diseases such as myocardial infarction and cerebral infarction.
Symptoms of impaired kidney function
In diabetic nephropathy, renal function changes due to high blood pressure. Patients may experience symptoms such as increased protein in urine and hematuria, decreased excretion function of the kidneys, and edema. As the disease progresses, renal function gradually deteriorates, and in severe cases, it may develop into uremia, requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation.
Research progress on diabetes and hypertension
Research breakthroughs in pathogenesis
There has been new progress in the study of the pathogenesis of diabetes combined with hypertension. Studies have found that insulin resistance is one of the important factors. It not only affects blood sugar metabolism, but also causes high blood pressure by activating the sympathetic nervous system and other pathways. In addition, endothelial dysfunction also plays a key role in the onset of the disease. In the state of insulin resistance, vascular endothelial function is impaired, leading to atherosclerosis and increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. At the same time, factors such as high blood sugar, high blood viscosity, and high blood lipids interact with each other and jointly promote the occurrence and development of diabetes combined with hypertension.
Innovative development of treatment strategies
In terms of treatment strategies, there are continuous innovations and developments. Traditional Chinese medicine treatment has received more attention, and it plays a role in protecting endothelial cell function and improving insulin resistance. New hypoglycemic drugs such as SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists have a certain antihypertensive effect while lowering blood sugar, bringing new options for treatment. Non-drug treatments such as metabolic surgery and sympathetic denervation also provide new ideas for comprehensive intervention of diabetes and hypertension. In addition, combined treatment has become the mainstream direction, such as metformin combined with antihypertensive drugs, showing good synergistic effects.
Practical suggestions and preventive measures
Adjustment of lifestyle
In terms of diet, patients should strictly control their food intake, follow the principles of low salt, low sugar, and low fat, and reduce the intake of high-calorie, high-cholesterol foods, such as fried foods, animal offal, etc. Increase the intake of fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, and other foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. Avoid overeating and maintain regular eating times.
In terms of exercise, patients are advised to perform at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, such as brisk walking, swimming, cycling, etc., and can also be combined with appropriate strength training, such as weightlifting, push-ups, etc. When exercising, pay attention to gradual progress and avoid excessive fatigue and strenuous exercise to prevent damage to the body.
In addition, patients need to maintain a good attitude and avoid long-term tension, anxiety, anger and other negative emotions. Ensuring adequate sleep and establishing a regular work and rest schedule will help maintain the body’s normal metabolism and endocrine balance.
Regular inspection and monitoring
Regular check-ups are essential for patients with diabetes and hypertension. Patients are advised to check fasting blood sugar, glycosylated hemoglobin, blood pressure, blood lipids, renal function, electrocardiogram and other indicators every 3-6 months to detect changes in the condition in a timely manner and adjust the treatment plan.
Fundus examination should be performed at least once a year to detect retinopathy at an early stage. Urine protein quantitative examination should also be performed regularly to help understand kidney function. In addition, patients should monitor their blood sugar and blood pressure at home and keep records to provide reference for doctors.
Regular monitoring of blood sugar and blood pressure can help patients better understand their condition, improve treatment compliance, effectively control disease progression, and reduce the risk of complications.
Future Outlook
With the continuous advancement of medical technology and the in-depth development of scientific research, the research on diabetes and hypertension is expected to achieve major breakthroughs in many fields.
In terms of genetic research, through in-depth analysis of the variation and expression of related genes, it is hoped that early and accurate screening and prevention of high-risk groups can be achieved.
In the field of drug research and development, more targeted drugs with fewer side effects and more significant efficacy may emerge. For example, new targeted drugs targeting specific pathogenesis are expected to be launched.
In terms of treatment concepts, personalized and precise treatment will become the mainstream, and exclusive treatment plans will be formulated based on individual differences of patients, including genetic characteristics, lifestyle and comorbidities.
At the same time, the application of artificial intelligence and big data in medical care will become more extensive, providing more accurate basis for diagnosis, treatment and prognosis assessment through the analysis of large amounts of patient data.
For patients, although the prevention and treatment of diabetes and hypertension still face challenges, we should be full of confidence. We should actively cooperate with treatment and maintain good living habits. We believe that there will be more effective treatments and methods in the future to bring more protection to health.