Diabetes and Heart Disease: Understanding the Risks
How Diabetes Increases Your Risk of Heart Disease — and What You Can Do to Prevent It ?
In Dubai, we work hard, live fast, and dream big.
With family, success, and a bright future in mind, our health becomes the foundation of everything we love.
Many of us know someone living with diabetes. But what many people do not realize is this:
Diabetes does not only affect blood sugar — it can quietly harm the heart.
Understanding this connection can protect your health, your energy, and your future.
Why Diabetes Affects the Heart?
When you have diabetes, your body struggles to control blood sugar. Over time, high sugar levels damage the blood vessels that supply your heart, much like sand slowly wearing down even the strongest stone.
This can lead to:
- Blocked arteries
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Inflammation inside the body
These changes greatly increase the risk of:
- Heart disease
- Heart attack
- Stroke
People with diabetes are two to four times more likely to develop heart disease.
But here is the good news — you have the power to protect your heart.
6 Common Signs to Watch For Diabetic Patients
If you have diabetes, do not ignore symptoms such as:
- Chest pressure or pain
- Shortness of breath
- Tiredness that does not go away
- Swollen feet or ankles
- Fast or uneven heartbeat
- Dizziness or fainting
These may be early warning signs. Listen to your body — it speaks with care.
4 Simple Ways to Protect Your Heart
1. Eat Smart — Not Less
You do not need to give up the foods you love. Focus on balance:
- Fresh vegetables and fruits
- Fish, grilled chicken, and lean meats
- Whole grains
- Nuts and olive oil
- Reduced sweets and sugary drinks
Dubai offers exceptional dining options — simply choose wisely.
2. Move Every Day
You do not need intense exercise.
Just 30 minutes of walking, swimming, or gentle gym workouts can strengthen your heart and control your blood sugar.
Movement is luxury self-care — like a spa for your heart.
3. Manage Stress
Busy schedules, business responsibilities, travel, and family life can create stress.
Stress raises blood sugar and blood pressure.
Try the simple things for managing stree:
- Deep breathing
- Gentle yoga
- Prayer and mindfulness
- Nature walks
- Quality time with loved ones
Calmness is also medicine.
4. Regular Check-Ups
Even if you feel well, regular medical check-ups are essential.
A good diabetes and heart health plan includes:
- A1C test (blood sugar control)
- Cholesterol test
- Blood pressure check
- Kidney function test
- Heart evaluation
Prevention is smarter than late treatment. It protects your wellbeing and your lifestyle.
Modern Treatments and Support
Today, medicine provides advanced treatments that protect both sugar control and heart health.
At Dr. Tamkeen Kinah’s practice, we believe in:
- Personalized health plans
- Smart medication choices
- Weight-management support
- Heart-focused diabetes care
- Lifestyle coaching that suits your routine
Your healthcare should match your lifestyle — efficient, modern, and compassionate.
Remember: Your Life Is Precious
Diabetes may be part of your life, but it does not control your future.
With the right steps, you can protect your heart, enjoy your family, travel freely, and live confidently.Every healthy choice is an investment in your wellbeing and your future.
Stay informed. Stay active. Stay in control.
Your heart deserves your care — and so do you.
Some MUST-KNOW FAQ's
If I control my sugar, am I still at risk of heart disease?
Yes. Even with good blood sugar control, diabetes raises the risk of heart disease.
However, managing sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure together significantly reduces risk.
I feel fine. Do I still need heart tests?
Yes. Heart disease in diabetes can be silent killer.
Regular heart screening can detect issues early, when treatment is easier and more effective.
What foods are best for my heart and diabetes?
- Fresh vegetables and leafy greens
- Salmon, grilled chicken, and lentils
- Whole grains such as quinoa and oats
- Nuts, olive oil, and avocado
- Low-sugar fruits such as berries and apples
Avoid heavy, oily meals and sugary drinks, including sweet juices.
Can stress affect my diabetes and heart?
Yes. Stress raises hormones that increase blood sugar and blood pressure.
Daily relaxation, prayer, deep breathing, and physical activity help protect your heart and mind.
When should I see a cardiologist if I have diabetes?
Consider seeing a heart specialist if you:
- Have had diabetes for more than five years
- Feel chest discomfort or shortness of breath
- Notice swollen legs or sudden fatigue
- Have a family history of heart disease
- Are older than 40 years
- Want preventive guidance and early care
Early consultation is wise, not worrying.
Protect Your Heart — Book a Comprehensive Heart Screening
For individuals living with diabetes, a complete heart evaluation is not optional — it is smart, proactive, and life-preserving.
At Dr. Tamkeen Kinah’s practice, we offer a premium Diabetes & Heart Wellness Screening, including:
- Complete cholesterol profile
- A1C and metabolic panel
- Advanced ECG
- Echocardiography (heart ultrasound)
- Blood pressure and vascular assessment
- Kidney function screening
- Personalized prevention plan
Designed for comfort, privacy, and world-class medical accuracy, tailored to Dubai’s lifestyle.
Your heart works for you every second. Now is the time to work for it.
Book your comprehensive heart check-up package today and take a confident step toward a longer, stronger, healthier life.
Focus on Diabetes and Heart Health with Dr. Kinah’s Expertise
Individuals managing diabetes, who face a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular complications, will find exceptional, specialized care with Dr. Tamkeen Kinah.
As an accomplished Consultant Cardiologist in Dubai with over 25 years of experience in Clinical and Preventive Cardiovascular Medicine, Dr. Kinah offers comprehensive heart checkup packages designed to address these combined risks effectively.
The meticulously crafted packages, ranging from the Cardiac Package-Regular at {1,999.00}AED to the Cardiac Package-Comprehensive at {6,999.00} AED, include vital diabetes-related markers like Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) and A1C glycosylated haemoglobin, alongside advanced diagnostics like stress tests and echocardiograms to fully assess heart health.
Dr. Kinah’s commitment to patient well-being and clinical excellence is consistently reflected in his outstanding patient feedback, achieving a perfect 5 out of 5 satisfaction rating on Google, giving diabetic patients confidence in receiving world-class, personalized care that focuses on both prevention and management.