“People with these two conditions are at increased risk for cardiovascular problems as well as kidney disease,” says William Keane, MD, president of the NKF and professor of medicine at the University of Minnesota Medical School in Minneapolis. “The key is to keep even closer control of blood pressure than experts have recommended in the past.” If you’re one of the 11 million Americans with both conditions, make a doctor’s appointment today, and bring this article along. “Despite the severity of these medical problems, people are largely unaware of the dangers,” Dr. Keane says. “The following recommendations give doctors the tools that will save lives.” Aim for these numbers. If you’re diabetic, work with your physician to achieve a blood pressure less than 130/80. Check it monthly until you’ve reached this goal, Dr. Keane suggests. Discuss meds with your doctor. The NKF recommends aggressive treatment that could involve several medications, including ACE inhibitors that help prevent blood vessel contraction, diuretics that help rid the body of excess water waste, long-acting calcium channel blockers that relax blood vessels, and beta blockers that slow the heart rate, Dr. Keane says. The good news: Early treatment may forestall the need for more meds in the future. Take action at home. While lifestyle changes haven’t proved as potent at fighting off the repercussions of hypertensive diabetes, they are still worth pursuing, says Dr. Keane. Minimize fat, cholesterol, and salt in your diet, and don’t smoke. More from Prevention: How To Eat To Reverse Diabetes
