From the Fall 2007 Issue of Discover RUSH Oak Park

You know it’s essential to control your blood sugar if you have diabetes. But this may surprise you: It’s also vital to keep your blood pressure within a healthy range.

High blood pressure — just like diabetes itself — increases your risk of heart disease, stroke, nerve damage, and kidney and eye problems. Together, high blood pressure and diabetes pack a one-two punch for your body.

So if you have diabetes, have your blood pressure checked regularly. Two out of every three adults with diabetes have high blood pressure. You could be one of them without even knowing it. Typically, high blood pressure doesn’t produce symptoms.

If your blood pressure is creeping up, work with your doctor to lower it.