National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes long-term complication of type 1 diabetes in terms of cardiovascular changes?

1. Fixed heart rate response to exercise

2. Higher resting heart rate

3. Normal heart rate variability

4. Increased exercise tolerance

The correct answer is: Fixed heart rate response to exercise

Fixed heart rate response to exercise best describes a long-term complication of type 1 diabetes in terms of cardiovascular changes. This phenomenon occurs due to autonomic neuropathy, which can develop in individuals with diabetes over time. Autonomic neuropathy affects the nerves that regulate involuntary bodily functions, including heart rate control, leading to a diminished ability for the heart rate to adjust appropriately during physical activity. In a healthy individual, the heart rate increases during exercise to meet the oxygen demands of the body's muscles. However, in those with long-standing diabetes, the impaired autonomic response restricts this ability, resulting in a fixed heart rate that does not change significantly with exercise intensity. This limitation can lead to decreased exercise performance and, over time, may contribute to further cardiovascular complications. Other options, such as a higher resting heart rate, normal heart rate variability, and increased exercise tolerance, do not accurately reflect the expected cardiovascular changes associated with long-term type 1 diabetes. Usually, a higher resting heart rate may suggest an increase in sympathetic nervous system activity or a decrease in parasympathetic control, which is not typically seen in cases of autonomic dysfunction due to diabetes. Normal heart rate variability is also unlikely, as diabetes-related neuropathy usually results in reduced variability