World Stroke Day 2023: Know Link Between Diabetes And Stroke

World Stroke Day: A stroke occurs when the brain is starved of vital oxygen and nutrients. High blood sugar levels in diabetes damage the blood vessels and significantly increase the risk of stroke.

Link Between Diabetes And Stroke (Representational Image)

Diabetes specially uncontrolled diabetes over a period of time increases the risk of stroke. According to Dr Sidharth Kharbanda who is an MBBS, and a Member of Royal College of Physicians (MRCP), UK, "A stroke occurs when the brain is starved of vital oxygen and nutrients. This can happen if the blood vessels are damaged or blocked. High blood sugar levels in diabetes damage the blood vessels and significantly increase the risk of stroke. Having diabetes itself is a risk factor for other diseases such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol, which in turn also increase the risk of having a stroke. In addition, poststroke outcomes are poorer in patients with poorly controlled diabetes."

The Link Between Diabetes And Stroke:

Talking about diabetes, Dr. Shaival Chandalia- who is the Consultant, Diabetologist & Endocrinologist at Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre, Mumbai said, "Diabetes is a multisystem disease. It affects the circulatory system ie the blood vessels in the body. Thus the complications of diabetes are divided into two categories- microvascular and macrovascular complications. Microvascular complications are those affecting small blood vessels in the body as in the eyes (retina), the kidney and the nerves. Macrovascular complications are those affecting large blood vessels in the body  as in the heart, the brain and the legs (peripheral arterial disease)."

"Thus having diabetes increases the risk of stroke, which is due to blockages of blood vessels supplying the brain. A stroke is like a heart attack of the brain but with a slower and more prolonged, sometimes partial recovery. This is because the brain does not regenerate. Hence, damage done to the brain due to a transient block in the blood vessels can do permanent damage. In this context it is important to control diabetes to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and the risk of stroke. But besides diabetes, there are other risk factors for stroke. These are hypertension( high blood pressure), smoking and high cholesterol. Hence whenever a doctor sees a patient of diabetes, he or she, in addition to controlling blood sugars, also treats blood pressure and cholesterol and counsels about smoking cessation," Dr. Shaival added.

The Link Between Diabetes And Stroke In Women:

Dr Shivangini Gupta (MS OBG) said, "The intricate connection between diabetes and stroke underscores the vital importance of women's health management. Diabetes, a common condition in women, not only impacts reproductive health but also elevates the risk of stroke. The complex interplay of hormonal fluctuations, metabolic dysregulation, and vascular health underscores the need for comprehensive care. By prioritising early detection, lifestyle modifications, and tailored interventions, we can empower individuals to take control of their health and reduce the risks of both diabetes and stroke. In women's health, understanding and addressing this link is a critical step towards a healthier, more vibrant future."

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]