In a nutshell
The aim of this study was to investigate if high blood pressure contributes to nerve disease (diabetic neuropathy; DN) in type 1 diabetes (T1D). The main finding of the study was that high blood pressure does contribute to impaired nerve conduction in T1D.
Some background
Diabetic nerve disease (DN) is a common complication of diabetes. This is when the nerves start to be damaged. It can lead to pain, foot ulcers, and amputation. Currently, there is no cure for DN. Therefore, it is important to find out what factors are contributing to the development and worsening of DN. Many people with diabetes have high blood pressure (hypertension).
It is not known if high blood pressure (BP) contributes to DN in patients with T1D.
Methods & findings
This study included 148 patients. 70 of these had T1D and 78 did not (control group).
High BP was found in 40 (57.1%) of the T1D group and 20 (25.6%) of the control group. High BP was associated with abnormal nerve function, increased loss of feeling and low eye nerve length and thickness in patients with T1D. High BP had no effect on nerve disease in patients without T1D.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that high BP was associated with abnormal nerve function in T1D. They also suggested that ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitors (a type of drug used to treat high BP) may improve nerve function in these patients.
The fine print
The study had a very small number of participants. Larger studies are needed for more solid evidence. Further studies are needed to evaluate whether BP lowering drugs can stop the worsening of DN in these patients.
What’s next?
If you have concerns regarding diabetes and BP control, please discuss with your doctor.
Published By :
American journal of hypertension
Date :
Apr 23, 2019
