Diabetes and Your Blood Flow

When you think of diabetes, you may think of blood sugar. But it can affect how blood moves through your body, too.

Your blood travels through tubes called blood vessels. They bring blood and oxygen to your heart, brain, legs and feet.

Over time, high blood sugar can harm blood vessels. Fatty deposits can also build up inside your arteries, leaving less room for blood to flow. These changes can lead to vascular disease, which means a problem with your blood vessels.

Why Does It Matter?

Poor blood flow can raise your risk of a heart attack or stroke. In your legs and feet, it can cause pain when you walk. It can also make cuts and sores slow to heal.

These problems don’t happen to everyone with diabetes. There are steps you can take to help protect yourself.

Where Can You Start?

These habits can help lower your chance of getting type 2 diabetes. They can also help you care for your health if you already have it.

• Drink more water. Try it in place of soda or sweet tea.
• Move each day. Start with a short walk or an activity you like.
• Add healthy options. Try beans, whole grains and more fresh or frozen vegetables.
• Get help to quit smoking. Smoking harms blood vessels, too.
• Keep up with care. Ask your doctor about your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol, a type of fat in your blood.

Start With a Conversation

Your AtlantiCare primary care provider can check your blood sugar and help you make a plan.

If you have leg pain when you walk or a sore that won’t heal, don’t wait for your next checkup. Call your provider. They can check for blood flow problems and help you get the care you need.

Need a provider? Find an AtlantiCare primary care provider today.