Diabetes affects millions of Americans. It occurs when the body is unable to produce enough insulin and process blood sugar properly.

If managed well through proper diet and medication, those with diabetes can lead full and active lives. There are however some serious complications commonly associated with diabetes, like cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, and PAD (Peripheral Artery Disease).

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, and at CTVS we’re sharing ways in which we help treat complications from diabetes that may pose very serious risks to our patients’ overall health and well-being.

Cardiovascular Disease

When diabetes is not properly managed, blood sugar levels can remain high for extended periods of time, which causes damage to blood vessels and leads to plaque build-up in the arteries (atherosclerosis), all interfering with the healthy flow of blood and oxygen to the heart. Those with diabetes have two times a greater risk of developing heart disease than others. If cardiovascular disease is left untreated it could lead to a fatal heart attack or stroke.

At CTVS, we treat severe forms of cardiovascular disease with surgical intervention including Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) to reroute blood through healthier veins and arteries  and Valve Repair and Replacement to correct deteriorated valves damaged by atherosclerosis.

Kidney Disease

Elevated blood sugar from diabetes can also damage blood vessels in the kidneys causing them to function poorly and stop filtering toxins from the blood. It is estimated that one in every three adults with diabetes suffers from chronic kidney disease.

Those with weakened kidneys often need external support from a dialysis machine to help with blood filtration

Our vascular surgeons create, and maintain, long term dialysis access for patient by means of a catheter, fistula or graft.

Peripheral Artery Disease

People with diabetes often develop a circulatory condition known as peripheral artery disease, or PAD, which affects blood flow to the peripheral arteries in the extremities, typically in the legs and feet. This is due to plaque build-up in arteries and veins associated with diabetes. Poor circulation from PAD can lead to serious, non-healing wounds and ulcers that may become infected and if left untreated, may lead to an amputation.

Ways in which we support patients with PAD at CTVS include:

  • Minimally invasive surgical procedures to clear arteries and restore blood flow
  • Surgical revascularization, such as limb bypass, to reroute blood through healthier arteries
  • Amputation, only as a last resort and for life-saving measures

Tips for Managing Diabetes

To effectively manage your diabetes and prevent the risk of developing these serious complications, make sure to:

  • Keep regularly scheduled appointments with your endocrinologist
  • Eat well and monitor and maintain healthy blood sugar levels
  • Stay physically active to promote good circulation
  • Take medications as directed 

For questions about our vascular, cardiac, or thoracic services, please visit ctvstexas.com or call us at (512) 459-8753 to schedule an appointment.

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