Skin conditions in diabetes

When you have diabetes, it is critical to be conscious of any potentially harmful skin complications and seek medical help before the situation worsens.

So, let us learn about the skin conditions that affect diabetic people.

Which skin problems are connected to diabetes?

Diabetic people are prone to the following chronic skin conditions:

Diabetic blisters (Bullosis diabeticorum):

Burning blisters can appear on the hands, palms, feet, toes, legs, or arms, among other places. These blisters usually are painless and heal on their own.

Diabetic dermopathy or Skin spots:

Many individuals mistake these dark, asymptomatic spots for aging spots. However, unlike aging spots, diabetic dermopathy typically vanishes within 18 to 24 months. But it can also last permanently on the skin.

Scleredema diabeticorum:

Patients with type 2 diabetes develop skin stiffness on the back of the neck and upper back due to this skin condition.

Vitiligo:

This skin condition affects natural skin pigmentation. People with type 1 diabetes are vulnerable to vitiligo. Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater to protect discolored skin from sunburn.

Diabetic ulcers:

Diabetic ulcers are open sores that develop from minor wounds. These sores can appear anywhere on the skin, but the feet are the most prevalent site.

Necrobiosis lipoidica:

This skin disorder is characterized by tiny elevated, resolute bumps that look similar to pimples. Over time, these bumps become bloated and turn into harsh reddish or yellowish-brown patches of skin.

Acanthosis nigricans (AN):

AN may be the earliest indicator of diabetes, as it causes darker skin in the neck corners.

Eruptive xanthomatosis:

When diabetes is not well-controlled, these lumps arise abruptly and disappear quickly. Unlike pimples, they have a yellowish tint. These bumps generally develop on the buttocks, legs, elbows, or behind the knees.

What are other skin infections common among people with diabetes?

Some other skin conditions common in diabetics are:

Bacterial infections:

Bacterial infections primarily develop in eyelid glands or deep beneath the skin. The red and inflamed, warm, and hurting skin is a sign of infection. You will require antibiotics for their treatment.

Fungal infections:

Candida albicans is the yeast that causes the majority of fungal infections in people with diabetes. Skin folds, such as under the chest, between toes and fingers, around nail beds, underarms, and thighs are commonly affected by a skin fungus. Genital itch and ringworm are also common fungal illnesses.

Allergic reactions:

Oral diabetes medicines and injectable insulin can cause allergic reactions in people with diabetes. Redness, hives, and inflammation may appear at the injection site and elsewhere on the skin.

How can diabetes-related skin issues be prevented?

Maintaining blood sugar levels within the range indicated by your healthcare practitioner helps avoid skin problems. A daily skincare regimen might help prevent diabetes-related skin issues.

The following are some skincare suggestions:

1) Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated.

2) Use bath products that do not cause dryness or irritation.

3) Apply antiseptic and bandage to cuts and wounds to protect them from worsening.

4) Do not scratch/rub infections, rashes, and ulcers.

5) Consult a dermatologist if you have recurring skin issues.

Role of diet and stress

Diet can play a significant role in managing diabetes and also related skin conditions. Eat a well-balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Keep yourself well-hydrated. Avoid consuming foods high in unhealthy fats, sugar, and salt.

Stress is another factor that can negatively impact your overall skin health. Stress causes changes within your body that may aggravate your diabetes and skin problems. Hence, follow a healthy lifestyle, practice meditation, and (if necessary) seek medical help to combat this factor.

Once your skin shows symptoms of diabetes, it is generally an indication of an increase in your blood sugar levels. Therefore, regularly measure your blood sugar levels to keep diabetes in check. Early detection and intervention are the keys to the treatment of skin disorders in people with diabetes.