Type 1 Diabetes: Cardiovascular Complications

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among people with diabetes, yet much of the population remains unaware of the risk. Chronic hyperglycemia (high blood glucose levels) can cause arteries to narrow and/or lose elasticity, and high cholesterol levels can clog arteries with fat deposits. People with type 1 diabetes who have also developed some degree of insulin resistance may be at an increased risk for heart problems, as insulin resistance has been associated with cardiovascular problems.

• Atherosclerosis narrows the arteries due to high cholesterol, leading to Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) where blockage occurs in the arteries that go to the heart.
  
  
• Hypertension, or high blood pressure, stems from narrow arteries and causes a build up in blood pressure within the arteries.
  
  
• Peripheral Vascular Disease is a narrowing of arteries outside the heart and brain.
  
  
• Stroke is an attack on the brain usually caused by blockage of the arteries or blood vessels that lead to the brain.
  
  
• Cardiovascular Autonomic Neuropathy (CAN) is the result of nerve damage to the cardiovascular system.
  
  

• Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) is a hardening of the arteries that prevents proper blood flow. The improper flow is one of the risk factors for foot ulcers, which can lead to amputation.
  
  

Reviewed by Francine Kaufman, MD. 4/08