COVID-19, Heart Disease and Diabetes

COVID-19 is the virus that has caused a global coronavirus pandemic and it can affect anyone. However, it is known to have more serious effects and cause complications for people with certain health conditions, including heart disease and diabetes.1 People with multiple underlying conditions may have compromised immune systems that put them at risk of dangerous symptoms should they contract COVID-19. The doctors and health professionals at Texas Laparoscopic Consultants in Houston believe that understanding your risks and your treatment options can help you achieve and maintain better health.

Managing COVID-19 Risks for Patients With Heart Disease or Diabetes

If you have heart disease or diabetes, it is very important to protect yourself from COVID-19. Steps that you can take to minimize your chances of getting sick include:2

  • Practice social distancing and limit interaction with people outside your household, especially indoors.
  • Wear a mask or face covering over your nose and mouth when you are in public.
  • Wash your hands often, scrubbing with soap and water for 20 seconds.
  • Keep a stock of diabetes testing supplies and prescription medication on hand.
  • Continue taking any prescribed medicines and do not change your medication routine without consulting your physician.
  • If you or someone in your household is exposed to COVID-19, talk to your doctor about quarantine and isolation methods.

Treatment Options for Diabetes and Heart Disease

If you have heart disease or diabetes, it is important to discuss your treatment options with qualified medical professionals and follow guidance from your doctor. While these conditions affect many types of people, being overweight can increase your likelihood of having Type 2 diabetes or heart disease. The good news is that losing weight and keeping it off can help you prevent or manage them.3 Lifestyle changes such as increased physical activity and a nutritious diet can mitigate the effects of heart disease and diabetes, but they aren’t always enough to get to a healthy weight.

The weight loss experts here at TLC understand how difficult it can be to lose weight through diet and exercise alone. If you are struggling to take control of your health, bariatric surgery could be an effective solution. Procedures such as gastric bypass and gastric sleeve can put Type 2 diabetes into remission.4 Our patients report that they feel healthier, more energetic, and more confident. They also are able to reduce or eliminate medications for diabetes and other conditions. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a virtual consultation appointment.

1 Mayo Clinic. COVID-19: Who’s at higher risk of serious symptoms? Available: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/coronavirus-who-is-at-risk/art-20483301 Accessed December 28, 2020.
2 Robert Gabbay, MD, PhD, FACP. What you need to know about COVID-19 if you have diabetes. Harvard Health Publishing. Available: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-covid-19-if-you-have-diabetes-2020041719558 Accessed December 28, 2020.
3 American Diabetes Association. Extra Weight, Extra Risk. Available: https://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-risk/prevention/overweight Accessed December 28, 2020.
2 Kashyap SR, Gatmaitan P, Brethauer S, Schauer P. Bariatric surgery for type 2 diabetes: weighing the impact for obese patients. Cleve Clin J Med. 2010;77(7):468-476. doi:10.3949/ccjm.77a.09135

The TLC Surgery Doctors have either authored or reviewed and approved this content.

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