As they say, diabetes and poor blood circulation do not go well together, especially since these two major health problems affect a large part of the world’s population. Often described as the evils of the century, diabetes and poor circulation are closely linked, with a strong statistical correlation between them. THE diabetes, through its deleterious effects on blood vessels, can cause or aggravate blood circulation problems, particularly in the legs. Let’s take an in-depth look at the links between these two conditions, as well as the solutions available to prevent and treat them effectively.
Diabetes, a silent and increasingly widespread disease
Often, people with diabetes discover their disease by chance, during a routine check-up for example. Asymptomatic in its early stages, this chronic disease is characterized by hyperglycemia, that is to say glucose level abnormally in the blood pupil. This condition occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin, a hormone that regulates blood glucose, or when the body cannot use the insulin produced effectively. There are mainly two types of diabetes: diabetes type 1, where the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells, and diabetes type 2, often associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity and a sedentary lifestyle. Type 2 diabetes is the most common, accounting for around 90% of cases.
Diabetes can cause many long-term complications, including cardiovascular illnesses, nerve damage, kidney problems and recurrent infections. These complications are mainly due to chronic hyperglycemia, which damages blood vessels and nerves. Diabetes management is mainly based on regular monitoring of the rate of glucose sanguin, a balanced diet, physical exercise and, in some cases, taking medication or insulin. Proper management can prevent complications and enable people with diabetes to lead healthy, active lives.
How Diabetes Can Affect Blood Flow to the Legs
Diabetes has a significant impact on blood circulation, particularly in the legs. Chronic high blood sugar damages the walls of blood vessels, making the arteries stiffer and narrowed, a phenomenon known as atherosclerosis. This narrowing limits blood flow to the lower extremities, leading to pain, cramping and a feeling of tightness. heaviness in the legs, especially when walking or exercising. This conditioning is often called claudication intermittente.
Likewise, diabetes can damage peripheral nerves, a complication called diabetic neuropathy. This neuropathy reduces sensation in the legs and feet, making people less aware of injuries or sores that can become infected easily due to poor circulation. Infections can then lead to diabetic ulcers, which are difficult to heal and can sometimes require amputation.
Diabetes also increases the risk of developing varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis, conditions that further impede blood circulation. People with diabetes need to be especially vigilant about the health of their legs and take preventive measures to avoid complications.
Solutions to treat and prevent blood circulation problems linked to diabetes
Treating and preventing blood circulation problems in people with diabetes is essential to avoid serious complications. Effective management of diabetes begins with regular blood sugar monitoring and maintaining blood glucose levels within recommended limits. Healthy eating, rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables and low in added sugars and saturated fats, can help control blood sugar and prevent atherosclerosis. Regular physical exercise is also crucial. Activities like walking, swimming, or cycling can improve blood circulation, strengthen leg muscles, and help maintain a healthy weight.
In addition to these measures, there are today, thanks to technological developments, devices capable of greatly improving the mobility and quality of life of people suffering from diabetes, and who suffer from one of its consequences, namely heaviness to the legs. The use of a circulatory stimulator for example can be extremely beneficial. These devices incorporating TENS and EMS technologies use electrostimulation to improve blood flow in the legs. These devices can help reduce symptoms of poor circulation, such as pain and swelling, and are particularly useful for people with chronic pain or mobility problems. Circulatory stimulators offer a non-invasive solution and can be used at home to improve the quality of life of people with diabetes.
However, it is also important to regularly consult a healthcare professional for complete exams. Medical monitoring allows any complications linked to poor circulation to be quickly detected and treated. In some cases, additional medical treatments, such as medications to lower cholesterol or blood pressure, may be needed to protect blood vessels.
Rigorous management of diabetes combined with support solutions such as circulatory stimulators can greatly improve quality of life, prevent feelings of heavy and painful legs and maintain good vascular health.
