There are occasions when a person’s skin issues are the first clue that they have diabetes.
A few are reasons for alarm, while others may be nothing more than a bit of annoyance (harmless). Here are some common skin issues that a person with diabetes could have.
You can avoid most skin problems with simple measures if discovered early enough.
The skin diseases that cause some of these issues can affect anybody, although they are more common in people with diabetes. People with diabetes are more likely to suffer from other skin issues. Necrobiosis lipoidica diabetic rum, diabetic blister, and eruptive xanthomatosis are some of the diabetic skin disorders. Read more to learn about certain skin issues and how to treat them.
Common Skin Issue (Could affect non-diabetics too)
Infections Due to Bacteria
- A wide range of bacterial issues include the following:
- “Crabby” (deep infections of the skin and the tissue underneath)
- A pair of sty’s (infections of the glands of the eyelid)
- Infection with Folliculitis (issues of the hair follicles)
- Nail infections
- Boils
Tissues that are inflamed are often swollen, uncomfortable, and hot to the touch. Staphylococcus bacteria, usually known as staph, is the most prevalent cause of infection.
Bacterial diseases, especially for diabetics, were historically life-threatening. Antibiotics and better ways of managing blood glucose have made mortality an uncommon occurrence.
Even today, people with diabetes are more likely to get bacterial infections than the general population. People with diabetes may lower their risk of developing skin infections by following appropriate hygiene practices.
Infections Due to Fungus
Candida albinos is frequently the causative agent in fungal infections in patients with diabetes. Small blisters and scales can form around damp red regions by this yeast-like fungus.
It is most common in men and women to have a problem with their groins and armpits since they haven’t had their foreskin pierced (in uncircumcised males).
Athlete’s foot, jock itch, ringworm (a ring-shaped irritating patch), and vaginal infection that causes itching are among the most common fungal diseases.
Itching
Diabetes can induce itching in specific areas of the body. A yeast infection, dry skin, or inadequate circulation can be the reason. The lower legs may be the itchiest if inadequate circulation is the reason for itching.
In some instances, itching can be treated at home. Take fewer showers and baths, especially when the humidity level is low.
Skin Issues Specifically Linked to Diabetes
Acanthuses Nigerians (black nail fungus)
Acanthuses Nigerians (AN) affects the sides of the neck, armpits, and groin. It can spread on the wrists, elbows, and knees.
Acanthuses Nigerians is more common in obese individuals. Losing weight is the best course of action. Some creams might improve the look of the blots.
Diabetic Dermopathy
Small blood vessels might be affected by diabetes. Diabetic dermopathy is a term used to describe the skin abnormalities that might occur due to diabetes.
Light brown, scaly patches are a common symptom of dermopathy. They may be oval or round. They may be mistaken for aging spots by some. The fronts of both legs are most commonly affected by this condition. Legs may not be damaged to the same extent as the arms, yet nothing about the patches is uncomfortable or itchy.
Dermopathy doesn’t require any therapy as it is harmless.
Necrobiosis Lipoidica Diabetic rum
NLD is another condition that alterations in the blood vessels may bring on. NLD commonly begins as a reddish-brown, elevated patch of skin. There’s a violet border around it, and it’s glossy. The blood vessels under the skin may become more visible. NLD can cause itching and discomfort. Cracks might appear in the places. The occurrence of NLD is quite rare. Keep an eye on the sores to ensure they do not burst open. It’s best to consult the best dermatologist in Peshawar treat open sores if they appear.
Allergy Reactions
Medicines, such as insulin or diabetic medication, can cause allergic skin responses. Response to medication should prompt you to seek medical attention.
Diabetic Blisters (bullosis diabeticorum)
Occasionally, people with diabetes break out in blisters. Finger, hand, toe, foot, and even leg or forearm blisters can be the outcome of diabetes. Diabetic neuropathy is a common cause of these lesions, which resemble burn blisters. They can be huge, yet they don’t hurt and don’t appear red. In approximately three weeks, they usually recover without scarring. The sole remedy is to regulate blood sugar levels.
Eruptive Xanthomatosis
Another complication induced by diabetes that’s out of control is eruptive xanthomatosis. It is characterized by pea-sized skin enlargements that are hard and yellow. A crimson halo encircles each bump, which may cause itching if you touch it. The most commonly affected areas are hands, feet, arms, legs, and buttocks.
Blood cholesterol and fat levels are frequently abnormally high in the patient. They go away when the blood sugar is under control, similar to diabetic blisters.
Digital Sclerosis
The backs of the hands of diabetics are prone to developing tight, thick, waxy skin. As the finger joints grow stiff, they cannot perform their normal functions. Knees, ankles, and elbows might also get stiff from time to time.
Type 1 diabetics are more likely to have this complication than the general population. The sole remedy is to regulate blood sugar levels. Nucleoli are disseminated all across the body.
Disseminated Granuloma Annulare
These are clearly defined arcs or rings on the skin. They tend to appear on regions of the body that aren’t near the torso (for example, the fingers or ears). They appear in various colors, including red, red-brown, and skin-toned.
See a doctor if you get these types of rashes. Medications are available to treat this problem. You can book an appointment with the Best Dermatologist through Marham.
FAQs
1. Is there a way to care for wounds on diabetic skin?
Treat any wounds, cuts, and scratches as soon as possible.
To treat wounds:
- Use soap and water to clean the affected area. If your doctor tells you to, use an antibiotic ointment.
- Apply an adhesive bandage on the wound to keep it clean.
- Treat the wound daily to hasten its recovery.
2. What soap is best if you have diabetic skin issues?
Use a fragrance-free, moisturizing soap to wash your face. Oatmeal baths can also alleviate itching.
3. Is coconut valuable oil for dry skin in diabetes patients?
Dry skin can benefit greatly from this oil’s ability to hydrate and protect it. Therefore, it is safe to use coconut oil to prevent dryness and flaking of the skin.
