Diabetes is a major risk factor in the development of heart disease, according to the American Diabetes Association; 23.6 million Americans have been diagnosed with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Although prescription medications are available to keep blood sugars at normal levels, most type I and some type 2 diabetics will require the use of insulin. Although inconvenient, insulin therapy is an effective method of controlling blood sugars and lowering the risk of heart disease.
Insulin
Insulin is a hormone produced by an organ located within our bodies called the pancreas. The main function of insulin is to signal tissues and cells to absorb glucose that is found in the bloodstream. Glucose is then utilized by the cells as a source of energy to drive various biological processes. Unfortunately, certain individuals may have an abnormality of insulin production or sensitivity. As a result, glucose remains in the bloodstream, causing higher blood sugar levels.
Diabetes Type I
In diabetes type 1, the pancreas is unable to produce sufficient amounts of insulin. This may be due to a genetic disorder, pancreatic disease or an autoimmune disorder. Diabetes type 1 is often referred to as insulin-dependent diabetes because patients often require the use of external sources of insulin. Although diabetes type 1 may develop at anytime, it often presents at an early age.
Diabetes Type 2
In contrast to diabetes type 1, type 2 diabetics may initially have normal insulin production. Unfortunately, certain circumstances can cause tissues and cells to become less sensitive to insulin. As cells become unresponsive to insulin, glucose remains in the bloodstream. In some cases, the pancreas compensates by increasing insulin production to the point of burning out. As a result, patients with type 2 diabetes may also eventually require the use of insulin therapy.
Diabetes and Heart Disease
Diabetes increases the risk of clot formation within arterial blood vessels. Through complex metabolic pathways, high blood sugars can lead to higher levels of cholesterol, a major component of plaques and clots. These buildups can occlude the flow of blood to vital organs, resulting in adverse events including stroke and heart attack. In addition, persistent high blood sugars may cause physiological changes to blood vessels, making them less elastic, resulting in higher blood pressures. High blood pressure is also a major risk factor for the development of heart disease, according to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse.
Types of Insulin
Although most patients will receive a prescription from their physician, certain commercially produced insulins are also available over the counter. Although commercially produced insulins are available from animal sources, most diabetics will use synthetically manufactured insulin. Insulins are often classified by their duration of action consisting of rapid, short, intermediate and long acting, according to MayoClinic.com. Each type of insulin contains distinct properties that make them the preferred choice for treatment in certain situations. The most appropriate insulin treatment plan should be determined by a physician or qualified diabetes educator. Patients should always speak to a physician before starting insulin therapy.
