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The thyroid may be small, but it plays a significant role in your overall health and wellness. This butterfly-shaped gland at the base of your throat produces and regulates hormones that influence your metabolism and energy level, cholesterol, heart rate, body temperature, and more.

How to Manage an Overactive Thyroid

Balanced thyroid hormones allow your body’s many systems to properly function, and issues with the thyroid can impact many aspects of your health.

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid produces too much thyroid hormone, accelerating the metabolism beyond normal. The condition can result in unintentional weight loss and/or an irregular or rapid heartbeat. Without treatment, it can lead to more serious complications such as congenital heart failure, eye health issues, and osteoporosis.

There are several effective treatment options for hyperthyroidism, including medications and surgical procedures. Here’s what to know about managing hyperthyroidism.

Causes and risk factors of hyperthyroidism

Several conditions or health factors may lead to overproduction of thyroid hormone. Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder in which antibodies overly stimulate the thyroid, is the leading cause of hyperthyroidism, accounting for 85% of all cases.

The development of thyroid nodules, which are typically benign lumps or growths in the thyroid that produce more hormones than needed

Thyroiditis, or thyroid inflammation, which most commonly occurs after pregnancy due to an underlying autoimmune disease or unknown cause

Excess consumption of iodine — a mineral critical to the production of thyroid hormone — through diet or medications

There are also several known factors that may increase your risk of developing the condition, including:

Health conditions including pernicious anemia, Type 1 diabetes, and primary adrenal insufficiency (also known as Addison’s disease)

Hyperthyroidism is associated with a wide range of signs and symptoms such as the following:

Unintentional weight loss even with increased food intake

Enlarged thyroid gland at the base of your neck

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism may be subtle for some individuals. In addition, many common symptoms overlap with those of other health conditions. If you have any concerns about your thyroid health, consult with your provider for an evaluation.

Hyperthyroidism is associated with irregular menstrual cycles, which can lead to difficulty conceiving. Many people initially learn of a hyperthyroidism diagnosis after experiencing fertility challenges. The treatment options described in more detail below can help restore hormone levels and ovulation.

There are several ways to diagnose hyperthyroidism, including a physical exam, blood tests, and imaging tests.

Your healthcare provider may check your thyroid, eyes, heart, hands, and skin during a physical exam to confirm a diagnosis of hyperthyroidism.

Your provider may recommend thyroid function testing, which consists of measuring your thyroid hormone levels via blood samples. Hyperthyroidism is characterized by elevated levels of the thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) and lower-than-normal levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).

Your provider may also use one or more imaging tests to more closely examine your thyroid, including a radioactive iodine uptake (RAIU) test, a thyroid scan, and a thyroid ultrasound.

There are a variety of treatment options for hyperthyroidism. Your provider will make individualized recommendations based on the cause of your hyperthyroidism and your overall health history.

The following types of medications are commonly used in the treatment of hyperthyroidism.

Anti-thyroid medications including methimazole (Tapazole®) and propylthiouracil (PTU) reduce symptoms by preventing over-production of thyroid hormones. These medications are typically taken for at least a year, though symptoms may improve within weeks or months.

Radioactive iodine is an oral medication that targets overactive thyroid cells, causing the thyroid to shrink and lowering hormone levels within a few weeks. This treatment approach permanently affects thyroid function, so symptoms of hyperthyroidism will not reappear. In most cases, the use of thyroid hormone medications is necessary after this treatment to maintain balanced hormone levels.

Beta blockers can control associated symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat, nervousness, or tremors. These medications cause the heart to beat more slowly and less forcefully. They will not change hormone levels and are typically used in tandem with anti-thyroid medications or radioactive iodine therapy. Commonly prescribed beta blockers include atenolol (Tenormin®), bisoprolol (Zebeta®), metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor®), metoprolol succinate (Toprol-XL®), acebutolol (Sectral®), and propranolol (Inderal®).

Some cases of hyperthyroidism require removal of part or all of the thyroid gland in a procedure known as a thyroidectomy. While this is effective at treating hyperthyroidism, it can result in an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), which requires ongoing use of thyroid supplements.

Iodine consumption can contribute to the development of hyperthyroidism or worsen symptoms. Managing hyperthyroidism often includes monitoring iodine intake.

If your provider recommends following a low-iodine diet, try to avoid or limit your intake of seafood and seaweed, which have the highest iodine content of all foods. Other high-iodine foods to consume in moderation include milk and dairy products, egg yolk, and iodized salt.

Never make significant changes to your diet without first consulting your provider or a nutritionist.

Managing hyperthyroidism is easier with a reliable pharmacy partner by your side. Our pharmacists can answer any questions you may have about treatment, and we offer free, same-day delivery and medication management tools like reminders and auto refills in our app.

To learn more, reach out any time through secure in-app messaging or by phone at 1-800-874-5881.

This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

All third party trademarks (including logos and icons) referenced by Alto Pharmacy remain the property of their respective owners. Unless specifically identified as such, Alto’s use of third party trademarks does not indicate any relationship, sponsorship or endorsement between Alto and the owners of these trademarks.

Traveling during fertility treatment may feel overwhelming, but it’s definitely doable. While the fertility journey involves many moving parts, careful planning and coordination with your care team can help you take a trip without impacting your treatment. Use the suggestions below to prepare for your travels. 

A Guide to Traveling During Fertility Treatment

Advanced preparation is important when traveling with any medication. Given the complex and time-sensitive nature of fertility treatment, the planning process involves a few more steps.

First, consult your doctor about your plans and make sure your intended travel dates don’t conflict with your treatment. In vitro fertilization (IVF) requires very thorough travel planning, since it entails multiple in-person doctor’s appointments and a very carefully timed egg retrieval. Other treatments such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) may leave more room for flexibility.

Regardless of your specific treatment plan, make sure you are up to date on vaccines and be sure to monitor health-related travel alerts. The CDC advises that women who intend to conceive consult their physician before traveling to a destination with potential exposure to the Zika virus.

Lastly, make sure that you have more than enough of your fertility medication(s) and supplies on hand. Aim for several additional days’ worth. Needles used to inject medications require a prescription in some states, so bring extra to avoid unnecessary hassle.

If you are traveling near an Alto location, same-day delivery of fertility medications and supplies may be available.

Pack your medications and supplies in a carry-on

When traveling by plane, it’s always best to pack important medications and supplies in your carry-on rather than in a checked bag. Bring everything you need to safely administer your medications, including syringes, needles, alcohol swabs, hand sanitizer, gauze, and a sharps disposal container.

While the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA)’s current limit on liquids, gels, and creams in a carry-on is 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters), there are exceptions for medications. Bringing needles onto a plane is acceptable when accompanied by injectable medications.

Give yourself extra time to allow for additional screening of these items. The following tips may help you get through security as efficiently as possible.

Inform the TSA officer that you are carrying more than 3.4 ounces of liquid medication before your screening process begins, if applicable.

Bring a copy of your prescription(s) with you.

Keep all medications and supplies in their original packaging.

Put your medications and supplies in a separate, clear bag, as they will need to be separated from the rest of your belongings.

Store your medications at the appropriate temperature

Refrigeration is essential with many fertility medications. (At Alto, we ensure that medications are held at the right temperature before you receive them and guide you on safe at-home storage.)

Many people use frozen gel packs and insulated medication bags to store fertility medications at an appropriate temperature while traveling. (This approach is particularly useful for air travel.) As you finalize your travel plans, verify that your hotel or other accommodation offers access to a refrigerator or mini fridge.

Choose a flexible and reliable pharmacy partner

Fertility treatment can be stressful, let alone traveling during the process, but we’ll be with you every step of the way. We offer free, same-day delivery of medication and supplies right to your doorstep, and our dedicated fertility team is here to answer any questions you may have before your trip.

Interested in learning more about how Alto can support your fertility treatment? Request a price quote online or reach out through secure in-app messaging or by phone at 1-800-874-5881.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common form of arthritis that affects children and adolescents. Like adult rheumatoid arthritis (RA), JIA is characterized by pain and inflammation throughout the body as the result of joint inflammation and stiffness.

In contrast to the ongoing nature of RA, some children do outgrow JIA. However, it can impact a growing child’s bone development, so treatment is important.

What to Know About Arthritis in Children

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common form of arthritis that affects children and adolescents. Like adult rheumatoid arthritis (RA), JIA is characterized by pain and inflammation throughout the body as the result of joint inflammation and stiffness.

In contrast to the ongoing nature of RA, some children do outgrow JIA. However, it can impact a growing child’s bone development, so treatment is important.

Here’s what to know about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options of JIA.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis affects children and adolescents age 16 and under. It may cause joint pain and inflammation anywhere in the body, but most commonly in the hands, knees, ankles, elbows, and wrists.

If untreated, JIA can lead to health complications, including:

Eye health issues such as cataracts or glaucoma, as JIA can cause inflammation in the eyes

More rarely, issues with the kidneys, heart, or endocrine system

The prognosis of JIA varies by individual. About 50% of children and adolescents with the condition fully recover while others continue to experience arthritis symptoms in adulthood. 

All forms of arthritis including JIA fall under the umbrella of autoimmune diseases. These conditions occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues. With arthritis, the immune system acts on the lining of your joints.

The causes of JIA aren’t fully known (idiopathic means unknown). Genetics likely play a component. Some evidence suggests that some children have a gene that leads to the development of JIA when activated by external factors such as a virus or bacteria.

Symptoms of juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Symptoms of JIA can vary from one child to another. Some individuals experience flare-ups, or periods when symptoms intensify, while others have a more chronic experience of the condition.

Pain and inflammation in the joints, most commonly in the hands, knees, ankles, elbows, and wrists. (For many, this symptom frequently occurs in the morning or after sleeping.)

The process of diagnosing JIA often involves several steps, as symptoms may resemble those of other conditions.

A physical exam is typically the starting point, after which a doctor may recommend one or more of the following blood tests to confirm a diagnosis of JIA: 

Antibody tests such as the antinuclear antibody (ANA) test, which measures blood levels of antibodies linked to rheumatic disease

Tests that check for levels of red and white blood cells and platelets - lower levels of red and white blood cells may be indicative of JIA

An erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) test, which examines how quickly your red blood cells sink to the bottom of a test tube - higher rates of settlement may indicate inflammation

A c-reactive protein (CRP) test, which identifies blood levels of CRP, an inflammation-linked protein produced in your liver

A creatinine test, which checks for kidney disease

A rheumatoid factor (RF) test, which checks for rheumatoid factor, an antibody found in about 80% of individuals with rheumatoid arthritis

Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and bone scans may also be used to support a JIA diagnosis.

Treatment for JIA encompasses medications, lifestyle changes, and physical and occupational therapy, with the goal of reducing symptoms and supporting an active life.

Individual treatment plans depend on a child’s symptoms, age, and overall health history.

The following types of medications may be included in a JIA treatment plan:

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) including ibuprofen (Advil®) and naproxen (Aleve®) may be used to reduce pain and inflammation during flare-ups. While these medications are available over the counter, your child may need a prescription for a higher dose.

Oral corticosteroids such as prednisone may also be used to reduce inflammation in children with JIA.

Disease-modifying antirheumatic medicines (DMARDs) such as methotrexate (Rheumatrex®) reduce the immune system’s response to triggers, easing inflammation and controlling JIA symptoms.

Injectable biologic DMARDs — which target more specific pathways in the immune system — are also used in the treatment of JIA, typically after other treatments have proven ineffective. Commonly prescribed biologics include abatacept (Orencia®), adalimumab (Humira®), canakinumab (Ilaris®), etanercept (Enbrel®) and tocilizumab (Actemra®).

Sugars, refined carbohydrates, and gluten can contribute to joint pain and inflammation, so it is often recommended for those with any type of arthritis to reduce their intake of these foods. With JIA, there is the additional consideration of incorporating nutrient-rich foods to support a child’s healthy growth and development. Consider speaking with a nutrition specialist to develop a balanced meal plan.

Regular physical activity is another component of managing JIA. Swimming and other water exercises, yoga, and cycling may be a good fit for children and adolescents with the condition. Physical therapy may be involved in treatment to help a child improve muscle and joint function. 

Lastly, it’s important for a child with JIA to get plenty of rest.

JIA is linked to eye inflammation, which can cause more serious eye problems later in life. Staying on track with regular eye exams can prevent and detect potential problems.

Life with juvenile idiopathic arthritis is easier with a reliable pharmacy partner by your side. Our pharmacists have specialized training in arthritis treatment and can answer any questions you may have, from medication side effects to navigating lifestyle changes.

In addition, we offer free, same-day delivery and medication management tools like reminders and auto refills in our app to make it as simple as possible to stay on track with your treatment.

Psoriasis is a skin disorder that occurs when new skin cells grow too quickly as the result of immune-related inflammation. It is characterized by thick patches of skin covered with white or silver scales. There are a variety of treatment approaches that help slow down the growth of skin cells and treat symptoms.

Psoriasis, Explained

Here’s what to know about the condition’s causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

Your body typically produces new skin cells over the course of several weeks. For those with psoriasis, new skin cells are formed in days. The excess cells accumulate on the surface of the skin, leading to the development of thick, scaly patches in most psoriasis cases.

Psoriasis scales may develop anywhere on the body. Some people have just a few small flakes on their scalp or elbow while others have larger patches covering much of their skin.

Individuals of all ages, sexes, races, and ethnicities may develop psoriasis. In the U.S., roughly one-third of all psoriasis cases develop before the age of 20. It is a lifelong condition, with the exception of a type of psoriasis that resolves after childhood.

The specific causes of psoriasis aren’t fully understood, however, the immune system, genetics, and environmental factors likely all contribute to its development. If one parent has psoriasis, you are more likely to also develop the condition. If both parents have it, your risk increases further.

Smoking can increase both an individual’s risk of psoriasis and the severity of the condition.

Psoriasis is not contagious and cannot be passed from one person to another.

For most people with psoriasis, symptoms fluctuate over time. Symptoms may be severe for a few days or weeks before clearing up. Some people then go on to experience years without symptoms. The periodic flare-ups are typically triggered by environmental factors such as the following:

Infections including strep throat and skin infections

Weather, especially cold temperatures and dry air

Skin injuries including cuts, scrapes, bug bites, and sunburns

While symptoms of psoriasis can vary significantly from one individual to another, common symptoms include the following:

White or silver scales, also referred to as plaques, on the inflamed patches

Soreness, itching, or burning sensations on or near patches of irritated skin

A basic physical exam is often sufficient in diagnosing psoriasis, as symptoms are both visible and distinct from those of other conditions. 

In cases where a diagnosis is less clear, your doctor may order a biopsy, which is a small sample of your skin. Biopsies are typically performed in a doctor’s office with a local numbing agent.

Your provider may refer you to a dermatologist who specializes in the treatment of skin conditions.

While there is no cure for psoriasis, there are many treatments that lessen skin inflammation and scales, remove plaques, and slow down the turnover of skin cells. Your doctor will recommend the best approach for your needs and symptoms, typically starting with less invasive options. 

Topical treatments, or medications applied to the surface of skin, are typically the frontline treatment for psoriasis. They slow down skin cell growth and reduce inflammation. There are several types of topicals:

Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory agents that reduce swelling and redness, and the most commonly prescribed medications for mild to moderate psoriasis. They are available in many forms, including oils, ointments, creams, lotions, gels, and more. Mild corticosteroid ointments like hydrocortisone are frequently used for sensitive areas while stronger creams and ointments like triamcinolone (Trianex®) and clobetasol (Cormax®, Temovate®) may be used for less sensitive areas or patches that don’t respond to hydrocortisone.

Non-steroid topicals including synthetic forms of vitamin D such as calcipotriene (Dovonex®, Sorilux®) and calcitriol (Vectical®) may be prescribed as an alternative to steroids. Like steroids, these treatments can help control plaques. They may cause less irritation than other treatments.

There are also over-the-counter topical treatments in the form of lotions, foams, tars, shampoos, and more. The active ingredients salicylic acid and coal tar are FDA-approved for psoriasis treatment. Always consult your doctor before beginning an over-the-counter treatment.

Light therapy is often a first line treatment for moderate or severe psoriasis, alone or in tandem with medications. In this treatment, the skin is exposed to controlled amounts of natural or artificial light. There are many types of light therapy, from simple exposure to sunlight to controlled doses of UVB broadband and UVB narrowband light and more. Your doctor can help you determine if these therapies are appropriate for you.

If your symptoms are moderate to severe, or if they haven’t responded to frontline treatments, your doctor may recommend an oral or injected medication. Since some of these medications have the potential for more severe side effects, they are used for short periods of time or alternated with other medications.

Biologics, a class of medications that are derived from antibodies and act on your immune system to prevent inflammation

Retinoids, vitamin A-based treatment typically prescribed in a hospital setting for severe psoriasis. Due to the potential for birth defects, retinoids are not safe to take during pregnancy, or three years prior to pregnancy.

Cyclosporine (Sandimmune®) is an immunosuppressant medication that decreases your immune system’s response to ease psoriasis symptoms. Since it weakens your immune system, it can make you more susceptible to illness.

Methotrexate is another immunosuppressant that may be prescribed as an alternative to cyclosporine. There is the potential for serious side effects with long-term use, but when used in low doses in the short term, side effects are typically mild.

Managing psoriasis is easier with a reliable pharmacy partner by your side. Our pharmacists can answer any questions you may have about treatment, and we offer free, same-day delivery and medication management tools like reminders and auto refills in our app.

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue that should only grow in the uterus implants and grows elsewhere. It can cause significant pain in some cases and is often a factor in female infertility.

Various forms of pain relief and fertility treatment can help address endometriosis symptoms and related health complications. Here’s what to know about the condition’s causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

Endometriosis: A Leading and Treatable Cause of Female Infertility

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue that should only grow in the uterus implants and grows elsewhere. It can cause significant pain in some cases and is often a factor in female infertility.

Various forms of pain relief and fertility treatment can help address endometriosis symptoms and related health complications. Here’s what to know about the condition’s causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

The endometrium is the tissue that typically lines the lining of the uterus. Endometriosis occurs when this type of tissue grows outside of the uterus, most commonly in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and lining of the pelvic cavity. It may also grow in the intestines, rectum, bladder, vagina, cervix, or vulva. In extremely rare cases, it may be found outside of the pelvic area.

Just like endometrial tissue that grows normally in the uterine lining, the abnormal tissue that characterizes endometriosis thickens and bleeds during each menstrual cycle. However, whereas normal endometrial tissue is shed with the cycle, the abnormal tissue cannot leave the body. This can lead to inflammation and scarring of the surrounding tissue, as well as adhesions that bind the pelvic organs to one another.

In cases of endometriosis where tissue grows in the ovaries, the condition may lead to the development of cysts in the ovaries.

There is a spectrum of severity of endometriosis cases, defined by the amount of excess tissue and resulting cysts, scar tissue, or adhesions. The level of pain, which varies by individual, does not always correlate to the stage or severity of the condition. Pain typically peaks during a menstrual period.

The specific causes of endometriosis have not been identified, but the medical community believes that the following factors may contribute to its development:

Retrograde or reverse menstruation, in which endometrial tissue flows backwards through the fallopian tubes and into the abdomen during a menstrual cycle

Transformation of the cells that line the inside of the abdomen into endometrial-like tissue as the result of hormone or immune factors

Transformation of embryonic cells into endometrial-like tissue during puberty as the result of hormone factors

Attachment of endometrial cells to an incision during surgical procedures such as a hysterectomy or c-section

Transport of endometrial cells to other parts of the body via blood vessels or lymphatic fluid

Issues with the immune system that keep the body from destroying abnormal endometrial tissue

In addition, the following risk factors are often linked to endometriosis:

Getting your first menstrual cycle at an early age

Having an abnormally short menstrual cycle (e.g., less than 21 days)

Abnormally heavy menstrual periods lasting beyond seven days

Other health conditions that prevent the flow of menstrual blood during a menstrual period

There is also evidence that endometriosis may have a genetic component. You may have a higher risk of developing it if you have a mother, sister, or aunt with the condition.

Common symptoms of endometriosis include:

Pain, especially severe menstrual cramps in the abdomen or lower back

Painful urination or bowel movements during menstrual periods

Gastrointestinal issues including diarrhea, constipation, and nausea

Endometriosis can look very different from one individual to another, with varying experiences of symptoms. In some cases, the condition may not be accompanied by any noticeable symptoms.

How endometriosis affects female fertility

Endometriosis is a leading cause of female infertility, as abnormal growth of endometrial tissue can block the fallopian tubes, preventing the fertilization of an egg. It accounts for 24-50% of all female infertility cases, and one-third to one-half of individuals with the condition experience difficulty conceiving.

In mild or moderate cases of endometriosis, surgery to remove adhesions, cysts, and scar tissue is all that is needed to restore fertility. In other cases, additional procedures or fertility treatment may be required.

Getting an accurate diagnosis is critical to effectively treating the condition. However, the diagnosis process can be lengthy, with multiple steps, as symptoms frequently overlap with those of ovarian cysts, pelvic inflammatory disease, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

An evaluation for endometriosis begins with a conversation about your health history. Several tests may be used during the diagnostic process, including the following.

A transvaginal or abdominal ultrasound, which provides images of your reproductive organs to help your doctor identify cysts potentially related to endometriosis

A laparoscopy, a procedure that inserts a small camera through the abdomen with the goal of directly identifying endometrial tissue outside of the uterus. This is the only procedure that can definitively confirm a diagnosis of endometriosis.

Severe pain from endometriosis can affect daily activities, and there are a variety of pain relief options, including both medications and surgery. Your doctor will likely try non-surgical interventions as a starting point and recommend procedures if the condition does not respond to initial treatment.

The following treatments may be used to treat discomfort caused by endometriosis or related health issues:

Over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen

Supplemental hormones including the male hormone androgen, which can regulate hormonal production or minimize fluctuation to prevent abnormal tissue growth

Hormonal birth control including pills, patches, and vaginal rings, which prevent abnormal tissue growth by decreasing fertility

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, which block the production of estrogen to prevent menstruation

If symptoms do not improve after the treatments above, your doctor may recommend surgery. In addition to its usage during the diagnosis process, a laparoscopy can remove abnormal endometrial-like tissue. 

A hysterectomy, which removes the uterus and cervix, is typically reserved for severe cases. The procedure permanently affects your fertility, and you will not be able to become pregnant after the procedure. It’s important to consult your doctor about your options as well as your reproductive goals before moving forward.

In vitro fertilization (IVF) — a process in which eggs and sperm are fertilized and then placed into the uterus with the potential outcome of a pregnancy — can help individuals experiencing endometriosis-related infertility conceive.

In cases where fallopian tubes are blocked or severe scar tissue is present, your doctor may recommend proceeding directly to IVF before trying to conceive naturally.

Since 2016, Alto has supported more than 50,000 fertility journeys. We understand that fertility treatment is a significant investment — physically, emotionally, and financially — and we see ourselves as a partner in your health.

We offer free, same-day delivery seven days a week and temperature controlled packaging to ensure that your fertility medications always arrive in the right condition. And our fertility-trained pharmacists are available until 9 pm PST (12 midnight EST) on weeknights to offer any support you need.

Everyone should prioritize their heart health and take impactful steps to lower their risk of heart disease, a widespread and serious condition. For those with diabetes, it’s especially important to be proactive, as the condition doubles your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Understanding the Diabetes-Heart Health Connection

Read on to learn how diabetes affects heart health and what you can do to lower your risk of heart disease if you have diabetes.

The term heart disease refers to several different conditions that affect the heart:

Coronary artery disease — the most common type of heart disease — occurs when the blood vessels that supply the heart with oxygen-rich blood are hardened or blocked, affecting blood flow to the heart.

Peripheral arterial disease is characterized by a similar hardening of the arteries in the legs and feet. It is often the first sign of cardiovascular disease in an individual with diabetes.

Heart failure occurs when the heart cannot pump blood and oxygen as well as a healthy heart, often due to damaged heart muscle or blocked arteries.

A stroke occurs when the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain is blocked, often due to a blood clot or the accumulation of plaque in blood vessels.

Diabetes is one of several primary drivers of heart disease, along with uncontrollable risk factors like age and family history as well as controllable ones such as:

The connection between diabetes and heart health is twofold. First, it can directly increase your risk of heart disease, as high blood sugar — the defining feature of diabetes — can gradually damage your blood vessels and the nerves that control your heart.

Secondly, diabetes may increase your risk for other heart-related conditions, specifically:

High blood pressure, which occurs when the force of the blood flowing through your arteries is consistently too high, causing the heart to work harder. Damaged blood vessels as the result of diabetes can lead to high blood pressure. According to the American Diabetes Association, two out of three individuals with diabetes have high blood pressure or take blood pressure-lowering medication.

High levels of LDL cholesterol, which can also damage blood vessels over time, increasing the risk for heart disease and stroke. Elevated levels of cholesterol and other blood fats like triglycerides often go hand in hand with diabetes.

High blood pressure and high cholesterol are not accompanied with visible symptoms in many cases. For this reason, it’s important to stay on track with preventative screenings and to monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

If you have any condition that falls under the umbrella of diabetes — including prediabetes, type 1 diabetes, or type 2 diabetes — it’s important to learn the symptoms of heart disease. These are among the most common:

Heart disease presents differently from one individual to another. However, if you have diabetes and experience any of the symptoms above — especially chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, or fatigue — it’s important to seek prompt medical care.

If you have diabetes, there are several steps you can take to lower your risk for heart disease. First and foremost, stay proactive about your diabetes treatment and work with your doctors to keep blood sugar levels in a healthy range.

There’s a useful acronym to help you remember important diabetic preventative actions — aka the ABCs:

A: Staying on track with the A1C test, which measures your average blood sugar levels over the past three months. Work with your doctor to identify your personal target range.

B: Staying on track with blood pressure screenings. Your doctor can help you understand your personal goal, however, a healthy range for those with diabetes is typically considered under 140/90 mm Hg.

C: Staying on track with cholesterol screenings and keeping LDL levels in a healthy range. As with your A1C and blood pressure levels, follow your doctor’s guidance regarding your personal target for cholesterol.

S: Avoid smoking, as it narrows your blood vessels, worsening diabetes and increasing your risk for heart disease. Ask your doctor for support with smoking cessation if needed.

In addition, follow a heart-healthy diet:

Blog

How to Manage an Overactive Thyroid

A Guide to Traveling During Fertility Treatment

What to Know About Arthritis in Children

Psoriasis, Explained

Endometriosis: A Leading and Treatable Cause of Female Infertility

Understanding the Diabetes-Heart Health Connection

Navigating a Diagnosis of Prediabetes

How Alto Lowers the Cost of Fertility Treatment Through Better Medication Management

Choosing the Right Birth Control for You

Osteoporosis, Explained

AMH Testing in Fertility Treatment

The Difference Between Extended- and Immediate-Release Medications

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