Is your skin trying to warn you? 4 diabetes symptoms you can’t afford to ignore

From healthshots.com

Unexplained dry skin, dark patches and slow-healing sores are all diabetes symptoms on skin. Keep and eye out for them, says a dermatologist

Our skin is a clear sign of our health. It often shows the first signs of problems inside our bodies. In uncontrolled diabetes, these signs appear on the skin in different ways. You might experience constant itching, which can be very annoying, or you could have sores that don’t heal, leading to ongoing frustration. These symptoms are not just minor issues; they are essential warnings of high blood sugar levels. They remind us to take care of our health.

                                                   What are diabetes warning signs on your skin? Picture Courtesy: Adobe Stock

Why is my skin suddenly so dry and itchy?

If you’re constantly scratching at dry, irritated skin, it could be due to high blood sugar. Hyperglycaemia can cause your body to lose fluids at a faster rate, leading to widespread dehydration that leaves your skin parched, tight, and itchy, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Furthermore, prolonged high blood sugar can lead to poor circulation and nerve damage, which disrupts the skin’s ability to stay moisturised and healthy. As research published in Diabetic Wound-Healing Science points out, conditions like autonomic neuropathy decrease sweat gland activity, leaving skin cracked and prone to irritation.

What are dark, velvety patches on my skin?

Finding dark, thickened, almost velvety patches of skin, especially in the creases of your neck, armpits, or groin, can be a startling discovery. “This condition is known as acanthosis nigricans, and it is a common sign of insulin resistance and elevated blood sugar levels”, Dr Vidushi Jain, Dermatologist, tells Health Shots. These dark patches are a visible signal that your body is struggling to use insulin effectively. “While not harmful on their own, they are a strong indicator that you should have your blood sugar levels checked by a doctor”, suggests Dr Jain.

Why are my cuts and sores taking forever to heal?

A small cut or scrape that lingers for weeks without healing is a serious red flag for uncontrolled diabetes. High blood sugar impairs your body’s natural healing process in two significant ways:

1. It damages your nerves: This can lead to a loss of sensation (especially in the feet), so you may not even notice a minor injury at first, as per the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
2. It weakens your circulation: This reduces the flow of blood, oxygen, and nutrients that are essential for tissue repair, as per JPRAS Open Journal.

“This poor healing environment not only delays recovery but also dramatically increases the risk of infection, turning a minor wound into a significant health issue”, says the dermatologist.

What’s causing this numbness or tingling in my hands and feet?

That “pins and needles” sensation, numbness, or even a burning pain in your hands and feet is a classic sign of diabetic neuropathy, or nerve damage. Over time, high blood sugar is toxic to your nerves, particularly the long nerves that extend to your extremities, as per the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

This nerve damage is one of the most common long-term complications of diabetes and should never be ignored. Addressing it early by getting your blood sugar under control is crucial to prevent permanent damage, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Paying attention to these signals from your skin and nerves is vital. They are your body’s way of asking for help, and responding quickly can help you avoid the more severe complications of uncontrolled diabetes.

https://www.healthshots.com/beauty/skin-care/diabetes-symptoms-skin/

Diabetes and the Skin: Complications and Prevention Tips

From drugtopics.com

Skin complications are common in patients with diabetes, but pharmacists can recommend several easy measures to help

Diabetes is one of the leading causes of death and disability across the world, affecting approximately 530 million people in 2021. The global burden of the disease is also projected to increase significantly in the coming years, with some estimates putting the number of people diagnosed with the condition at 1.31 billion by 2050.

The chronic disease, characterized by elevated blood glucose concentrations, can lead to numerous serious health complications if left uncontrolled. Patients with diabetes are at an increased risk for heart and blood vessel damage, nerve damage, kidney damage, and osteoporosis, as well as Alzheimer disease and dementia.

Another common area of concern for patients with diabetes is the potential for complications of the body’s largest organ: the skin. Between 30% and 70% of patients with diabetes will experience a skin condition at some point in their life. Skin conditions can also often be the first sign that someone has diabetes, which is why it is important to always keep an eye on any noticeable changes. 

“Given the high prevalence of diabetes and its associated skin complications, it is crucial to address this issue and explore strategies for its prevention and management,” wrote researchers in a review article published in the journal Cureus. “Early detection and treatment of skin complications can improve outcomes and reduce the risk of serious complications.”

Diabetes Skin Complications

Acanthosis nigricans

One of the more classically known skin complications of diabetes, acanthosis nigricans is more common in patients with type 2 diabetes and can impact men and women of all ages. The condition presents as multiple plaques that are grey to dark brown in colour with a thickened, velvety surface. It commonly appears on the back of the neck, elbows, and groin.

Diabetic dermopathy

The most common diabetic skin condition, diabetic dermopathy affects as many as 50% of patients with diabetes. Men and individuals older than age 50 are at highest risk for the complication, which usually occurs as a late complication of diabetes. It presents as rounded, dull, red papules that eventually turn into brown macules with a fine scale. They commonly appear over bony areas, such as the front of the shin or forearms.

Diabetic foot syndrome

Diabetic foot syndrome has a prevalence of approximately 4% to 10% and is slightly more common in patients with type 1 diabetes. The condition represents a significant cause of morbidity, mortality, hospitalization, and reduction in quality of life. It initially presents as calluses and dry skin, but in later stages turns into chronic ulcers and other malformations of the feet. Diabetic foot syndrome also makes patients more prone to fungal infections, which can infect and complicate the ulcers.

Scleredema diabeticorum

A chronic, slowly progressing skin disorder that affects approximately 2.5% to 14% of patients with diabetes, scleredema diabeticorum affects mostly women and those over the age of 20, although it can impact patients of all ages. The condition presents as worsening, thickened skin. The most commonly affected areas are the upper back, shoulders, and back of the neck.

Taking Care of Your Skin

According to the CDC, the skin is a good indicator of overall health. When skin complications arise in patients with diabetes, they may be the result of high blood sugar, or they may mean that a change in treatment is needed. The American Diabetes Association notes that it is important to take good care of the skin, and there are several measures that can be taken to prevent any potential complications.

These include the following:

• Managing diabetes effectively.
• Keeping skin clean and dry.
• Using moisturizer to prevent dry, cracked skin.
• Avoiding excessively hot showers or baths.
• Treating any cuts, wounds, or burns by washing and applying antibiotic cream or ointment, as well as covering any minor cuts with sterile gauze.
• Keeping the home humid during cold, dry months.
• Using mild shampoos.

If patients are unable to solve these skin issues on their own, consider referring them to a dermatologist for additional care.

https://www.drugtopics.com/view/diabetes-and-the-skin-complications-and-prevention-tips

Skin Care Tips For People With Diabetes

From diatribe.org

Diabetes affects the skin in ways people may not even realise. Read about this connection and learn how to maintain healthy skin

As we approach the summertime, exposing a bit more skin and spending more time in the sun, skin care can become a crucial part of diabetes management. In fact, many people with diabetes may not think about how their skin is affected and may not even know that there is such an overlap between diabetes and skincare. People with diabetes constantly experience greater stress on their skin in ways they may not even consider, from wearing diabetes technology and adhesives to having dry skin from high glucose levels.

“The skin shows what’s happening on the inside, and that could be showing signs of diabetes or signs of heart failure, kidney disease, etc.,” said Noelle Wands, a physician assistant in dermatology who has had type 1 diabetes since age four. “The overlap isn’t necessarily a ‘diabetes and skin’ thing. I think of it as a tree: diabetes can affect all these systems and dermatology is one of those many systems,” she said. 

A common skin issue for people with diabetes is dry skin due to high glucose in the blood. “Your body wants equilibrium so you draw in water from other organs and body parts to dilute [the high glucose levels in the blood],” said Wands. “That’s why your eyes and mouth can get dry, and then you see your dry skin.” Using lotion on a regular basis can help with dry skin. Some brands even have diabetes specific lotions or creams, but Wands explained that regular lotions can be just as effective. 

Many people also experience problems with scar tissue and adhesive allergies from constantly injecting the skin with devices and technology. Wands explained that many people are not aware of their adhesive allergies until after they have a reaction. Scar tissue can also form when overusing the same site on the skin for inserting devices. Try to avoid sites with significant scar tissue when injecting a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) or insulin pump. 

Additionally, sun burns can have a significant effect on glucose levels, depending on the extent of the burn. “Your skin is trying to regenerate and [the body] puts a ton of energy into fixing your skin, so you can go low from putting all of this energy into healing it,” said Wands. The healing process can put stress on the body,  which can sometimes cause glucose levels to spike as well. “Good sunscreen use will go so far,” Wands emphasized.

Overall, “dermatology is integrated into a diabetic’s life without even knowing it,” said Wands. “It’s very subdued but it’s there.” Fortunately, there are several ways you can maintain healthy skin.

Here are some tips to consider:

1. Use products with ceramides. Ceramides help prevent and heal dry skin, and overall improve the skin’s barrier. Other ingredients that could benefit the skin include Vitamin C, peptides, and Retin-A. “Those are the magic four ingredients,” said Wands. If you have a specific skin condition, talk to your healthcare provider about other potential prescriptions or over the counter products to use. 

2. Rotate your insertion sites when possible. This can help prevent overuse and scar tissue. For insulin pumps rotate every 2-3 days, and for CGMs rotate every 10-14 days.

3. Wear sunscreen! Proper sunscreen use will keep your skin healthy and help keep your glucose levels in range and avoid sunburn.

4. Find an adhesive that works for your skin. Everyone's skin is different, so try different ones until you find the best adhesive for you. If you happen to experience an allergic reaction, one of the main treatments is a topical steroid cream, according to Wands.

5. Above all, keep your glucose levels in range. Staying in a healthy glucose range is helpful for preventing and healing wounds, scar tissue, sunburns, and other diabetes-related complications. 

At the end of the day, Wands emphasized that “keeping your [glucose levels in range] has so many positive effects for your skin you don’t even realize.”

To find out more about how diabetes, and specifically how diabetes devices, can affect your skin, read our article: “Does Your Diabetes Device Bother Your Skin?”

https://diatribe.org/skin-care-tips-people-diabetes 

Diabetes type 2 symptoms: The texture of your hand is a sign of high blood sugar

From express.co.uk

DIABETES - do you have it? If you'd like to know whether or not you're suffering from elevated blood sugar levels, take a look at your hand. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD), the condition can cause skin irregularities

Whether it's pre-diabetes – meaning you're at increased risk of diabetes – or you've had the condition for a while, digital sclerosis might appear. What does it look like? According to AAD, the back of the hands will feel "tight" and the skin will look "waxy". Digital sclerosis can cause the fingers to become stiff and difficult to move.

If diabetes has been poorly controlled for a number of years, or you've been unaware of the condition, it can feel like there are pebbles in the fingertips.

"Hard, thick, and swollen-looking skin can spread, appearing on the forearms and upper arms," warned the AAD.

This skin condition can also develop on the upper back, shoulders, and neck. Sometimes the thickening skin can spread to the face and chest area. Any area of thickened skin caused by digital sclerosis often has "the texture of an orange peel".

Digital sclerosis isn't the only warning sign of high blood sugar.

Another physical manifestation of type 2 diabetes is necrobiosis lipoidica. "This skin condition often begins as small raised solid bumps that look like pimples," said the AAD. As the condition progresses, the bumps can turn into yellow, reddish, or brown patches of swollen and hard skin.

You may also notice:

• The surrounding skin has a shiny porcelain-like appearance
• You can see blood vessels
• The skin is itchy and painful
• The skin disease goes through cycles where it is active, inactive, and then active again.

Another telling sign of diabetes can be acanthosis nigricans, which is areas of darkened, velvety skin.

These usually appear:

• On the back of the neck
• In the armpit
• In the groin area

Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can lead to poor circulation and nerve damage over time. This can cause difficulty with wound healing, especially on the feet, where diabetic ulcers might appear.

These open sores might not feel painful because of the nerve damage that has been done. If the wound gets infected, there's a risk this could lead to gangrene, warned the NHS.

Diabetes type 2: Your hand could be revealing (Image: Getty)

Shin spots are also another possible indication of high blood sugar levels, added the AAD. These spots (or lines) create a "barely noticeable depression in the skin". The medical term for this skin condition is called diabetic dermopathy, and it usually appears on the legs.

In rare instances, the skin depressions might appear on the arms, thighs, trunk, or other areas of the body.

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1443370/diabetes-type-2-symptoms-hand-texture-high-blood-sugar

Diabetes Side Effects and Comorbidities

From verywellhealth.com

When an individual has diabetes, it requires a lifestyle change. If changes aren’t made, diabetes can lead to other health conditions.

As a person with diabetes, it is important to fully follow the plan that is given by your doctor to help your condition and possibly prevent long-term complications.

This article outlines comorbidities that can occur alongside diabetes.

Sanjeri / Getty Images

Cardiovascular Disease

Research shows it is common that people with diabetes also have cardiovascular disease and other heart-related issues. These conditions are intertwined and can create complications.

It is possible for people who have longstanding diabetes and heart-related conditions to develop other complications such as: 

• Stroke
• Congestive heart failure
• Coronary artery disease
• Peripheral vascular disease

When a person has type 2 diabetes, their risk for cardiovascular mortality and morbidity is higher than those who do not have diabetes. This is due to the lack of glycaemic control.

Other risk factors include:

• Obesity
• Smoking
• Lack of physical activity

All of these are factors of both conditions.

Research shows that when a person has type 1 diabetes, cardiovascular disease is a major cause of mortality. It is important to work with your healthcare professional to understand your conditions and follow the specified treatment plan related to both.

Dry Mouth

Diabetes can cause too much glucose in the blood. As a result, this can cause infection, pain, and dryness in the mouth.

High amounts of glucose will reduce the ability of saliva to produce effectively. When there are high glucose levels in the saliva, this increases the growth of bacteria. This can also increase the risk of:

• Gum disease
• Plaque
• Tooth decay

Some of the symptoms along with dry mouth include:

• Pain
• Cracked lips
• Mouth infection
• Problems eating
• Problems swallowing
• Problems talking

Along with taking your medicine prescribed by your doctor, other treatments that can help include:

          Consuming frequent sips of water

• Rinsing the mouth with fluoride to prevent cavities
• Avoiding caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol
• Consuming sugarless gum or mints to increase the flow of saliva
• Avoiding foods with high amounts of sodium and foods that are spicy
• Using a humidifier at night
• Having a good oral hygiene regimen

It is important to develop a treatment plan with your healthcare professionals. Both your doctor and dentist can help with a plan that is effective.

Erectile Dysfunction

Research has shown that erectile dysfunction is known to be a complication of diabetes. It is also an under-reported and under-diagnosed condition. Therefore, treatment and the age of diagnosis are delayed.

People who are older and have poor glycaemic control are known to have a higher risk of getting severe erectile dysfunction.

Fatigue

Fatigue is known as mental or physical exhaustion. It can be triggered by:

• Overwork
• Physical illness
• Medication
• Stress
• Disease
• Mental illness

When a person is fatigued, it can impair the mental and physical function for both short-term and long-term activities. Studies recommend that if an individual presents with complaints of fatigue, a healthcare professional should conduct a focused medical and endocrine check-up.

Fatigue is a common factor for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Along with diabetes medication, there are other risk factors of fatigue, including: 

• Inflammation
• High body mass index
• Depression
• Poor diet
• Lack of exercise and physical activity
• Poor sleep habits

Some people with diabetes become depressed, which is another condition that is, at times, diagnosed as fatigue.

It is important to speak with a healthcare professional about your specific symptoms so they can accurately diagnose the condition. If the lifestyle, nutritional, and medical factors are ruled out, a targeted gluco-endocrine evaluation should be done to determine a diabetes fatigue syndrome diagnosis.

Foot Ulcers

Diabetic foot ulcers occur in approximately 15% of people with diabetes. The length of time a person has had diabetes is a factor as to whether or not a patient will get a foot ulcer. 

The condition can show up as:

• Numbness in the foot
• Poor circulation
• Foot deformities

About 6% of people with diabetes could be hospitalized due to complications or infections of a foot ulcer.

If a person has type 1 or type 2 diabetes, they can get a foot ulcer. Certain individuals are at higher risk, including those who:

• Have peripheral vascular disease
• Have neuropathy
• Have poor glycaemic control
• Smoke cigarettes
• Have diabetic nephropathy
• Have had previous foot ulcerations/amputations
• Use insulin
• Are overweight
• Consume alcohol

People who have diabetes-related eye disease, heart disease, and kidney disease are also at a higher risk. 

Treatment for diabetic foot ulcers includes:

• Applying medication or dressings to the ulcer
• Managing blood glucose
• Taking the pressure off the area
• Removing dead skin and tissue

Ulcers are not always infected. If one does become infected, see your healthcare professional regarding proper medication and care.

Gum Disease

Gingivitis or gum disease occurs when plaque builds up around your teeth and inflammation in the gums occurs. For people who have diabetes, the inflammatory response to the plaque is greater.

Some of the symptoms of gum disease include:

• Loose teeth
• Sensitive teeth
• Gums that are swollen, red, or bleeding
• Bad breath

If a person does have gum disease and it goes untreated, it can turn into periodontitis. This is an infection that damages the soft tissue of the gum, and it can damage the bones that support your teeth.

Some of these suggestions can help prevent gum disease: 

• Avoid acidic drinks—they are known to erode the enamel on the teeth
• Floss regularly
• Regularly brush your teeth and gum line gently
• Brush your tongue to help get rid of bacteria

It is important to go to your regularly scheduled dental and doctor appointments. Your healthcare professionals can help you create a plan and possibly prevent complications.

Hearing Loss

A large number of people have both hearing loss and diabetes. It is estimated that 34.5 million people have hearing loss and more than 34 million people in the United States have diabetes. 

A recent study reported that hearing loss is twice as common with people who have diabetes. It is speculated that high blood glucose levels in diabetic patients may cause damage to the small blood vessels in the inner ear. However, more research needs to be conducted to confirm this theory. 

Although hearing loss is gradual over time, it is important to look for symptoms. Some of the signs of hearing loss are the following: 

• Turning up the television to a volume that is too loud
• Asking people to repeat themselves
• Trouble following conversations that have more than two people

If you feel you are experiencing hearing loss, contact your doctor so they can assist you in getting the help that you need.

Hypoglycaemia

Hypoglycaemia happens when the blood sugar falls below a certain range. If the blood sugar falls below 70 mg/dL, that is considered too low. It is important to check with your healthcare professional about your specific numbers.

If you are diabetic and hypoglycaemic, this may cause an insulin shock.

Some ways to stay current with your blood sugar numbers is to:

• Regularly check your blood sugar
• Use a monitor
• Keep an eye out for symptoms

Hypoglycaemia symptoms include:

• Being nervous or anxious
• Sweating or chills
• Irritability or impatience
• Confusion
• Tiredness
• Feeling weak or having no energy
• Blurred/impaired vision
• Tingling or numbness in the lips, tongue, or cheeks
• Headaches
• Clumsiness
• Nightmares or crying out during sleep
• Seizures

If you have any of these symptoms, contact your doctor right away.

Kidney Failure

The kidneys are an important function of the body. Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney disease. In fact, about one out of three adults with diabetes have kidney disease.

A healthy kidney filters waste out of the bloodstream and controls blood pressure. If a kidney is not healthy, it can’t filter properly and the waste will build up.

An unhealthy kidney can also lead to other health problems. If a person has diabetes over a period of years, the kidney will become damaged, disease can occur, and eventually kidney failure can occur. This is due to the blood pressure and glucose being too high.

It is important to talk to your doctor and check your kidneys to make sure they are healthy. It is recommended that you get tested every year if you have type 2 diabetes and if you’ve had type 1 diabetes for more than five years.

If a person has diabetes and is not active, eats foods high in sodium, doesn’t follow the eating plan, smokes, has heart disease, or is obese, they are at an increased risk of developing kidney disease and/or failure.

Memory Loss

When a person has diabetes, it may increase the risk of memory loss and other cognitive problems.

When the blood glucose is higher than normal, it is known to damage nerve cells and blood vessels in the body and brain. Diabetes is also known to damage the capillaries which could also cause a slow progression of memory loss.

Research has shown that people with type 2 diabetes could have a higher risk of developing dementia. Overall, if the diabetes is not properly controlled, the chances of having complications with memory are higher. It is important to manage your condition and follow the plan provided by your doctor.

Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy happens when there is nerve damage due to diabetes. There are different types with different symptoms. Some of the symptoms affect the internal organs, heart, and bladder.

A person who has this condition may experience pain and numbness in the feet and issues with internal organs.

With diabetic neuropathy, nerve damage happens over time. This is due to the high blood sugar, and high levels of triglycerides in the blood due to diabetes. There are different types of diabetic neuropathy, and the symptoms for each vary. These include: 

• Peripheral neuropathy: This is very common and is known to affect primarily the feet and legs. There are times that the arms and hands are affected too. Approximately one-half to one-third of patients with diabetes have peripheral neuropathy.
• Autonomic neuropathy: This affects the nerves that control the internal organs. It is also known to lead to hypoglycemic unawareness. This can create complications with the digestive system, bladder, sweat glands, eyes, heart rate, and blood pressure.
• Focal neuropathies: This causes damage to single nerves that are common in the head, leg, torso, or hand. Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common type of this condition.
• Proximal neuropathy: This typically affects one side of the body. The areas that are impacted are the buttock, thigh, and hip. The symptoms are known to improve over a period of months or years.

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea

Obstructive sleep apnoea commonly affects people who have type 2 diabetes. Research shows that up to 83% of people with type 2 diabetes have this condition.13

There is an association between this condition, insulin resistance, and glucose intolerance. More research needs to be done to conclude that treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea can prevent the compilations and development of type 2 diabetes.

Skin Infections

Diabetes affects the skin in different ways. Sometimes, certain problems with the skin such as itching, fungal infections, and bacterial infections are a sign that a person has the condition. If an individual has diabetes, they are known to get these types of skin conditions easier.

Other skin conditions that people specifically with diabetes could develop include: 

• Acanthosis nigricans: This appears on the side of the armpits, neck, and groin as tan or brown raised areas. They can occasionally appear on the hands, knees, and elbows.
• Diabetic dermopathy: These are patches that are circular or oval. The texture and colour are scaly and light brown. They primarily appear on the front of the legs. The patches are not known to hurt or itch.
• Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum: This is a rare condition that is commonly known to affect adult women. Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum begins as a raised area that is red and dull. Over time it develops into a shiny scar with a violet border. This skin condition is known to be painful and itchy, and the spots may crack open. If this happens, contact your doctor to get treatment.

Vision Impairment

When an individual has diabetes, they can develop problems with their eyes. Diabetic retinopathy can cause complete blindness and vision loss in people with diabetes.

This condition affects the blood vessels in the retina. Diabetic retinopathy can lead to:

• Neovascular glaucoma: This happens when fluid is blocked from draining out of the eye due to abnormal blood vessels growing out of the retina.
• Diabetic macular edema: When this condition occurs, the vision becomes blurry because there is extra fluid in the macula. The extra fluid is due to the blood vessels in the retina that leak fluid and cause swelling in the macula area of the eye.

Although there are no direct symptoms, it is important to notice any changes in the eyes. As a person with diabetes, it is important to get an eye exam once a year, including a comprehensive dilated exam. This can help with prevention and vision protection.

A Word From Verywell

If you are an individual who is living with diabetes, it is important to follow the plan that your doctor has created for you. It is also important to educate yourself on your condition so you can have a healthy quality of life and prevent any complications. If you have questions or concerns about your condition, your doctor can help.

https://www.verywellhealth.com/side-effects-of-diabetes-5181506

Can diabetes cause skin conditions? Here’s what you need to know

From indianexpress.com

Diabetes is no longer a disease of the select few, it has now become a mainstream lifestyle disease that has affected millions (men, women and children) around the world. However, did you know that imbalanced sugar levels in the blood not only adversely affect the many organs of the body, but also the skin?

“Most people with diabetes or pre-diabetic condition notice some recurring skin issues or have skin disorders at some point in their life. In some cases, the changes you are seeing on the skin can be an indication of the onset of diabetes or if you already have diabetes, it means that your dosage needs to be adjusted,” said Dr Rinky Kapoor, cosmetic dermatologist and dermato-surgeon, The Esthetic Clinics.

What causes skin problems because of diabetes?

Over 75 per cent of people around the world suffer from type 2 diabetes-related skin problems. Diabetes can cause new skin problems and worsen the old ones, she said.

*High blood glucose, because of diabetes, leads to poor blood circulation in the body as a result of which the blood vessels and nerves do not get enough blood and nutrients. Hence, the white blood cells lose their ability to fight infections.
*Decreased blood circulation reduces the skin’s ability to heal and damages skin collagen, thus robbing skin of its ability to ‘bounce’ back.
*Damaged skin cells lose the ability to function well and the skin experiences increased sensitivity to temperature and pressure.

Know the changes in your skin

The positive news, however, is that with little awareness, you can contain the skin issues in the early stages and protect the body from further damage due to diabetes, said Dr Kapoor.

Some common skin conditions in people with diabetes are

Diabetes can be managed by a controlled and healthy diet. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

*Dry, irritated, red, and itchy skin: Increased blood sugar leads to the body draining fluid from skin cells in order to produce urine, which in turn makes the skin dry and cracked. Another reason for dry skin is diabetic neuropathy i.e. damage to the never endings, especially of legs and feet. Dry skin tends to become itchy and when we itch, it leads to cracks, providing an easy opening for infectious elements to enter the skin leading to inflammations, redness, and irritation on the skin.

*People with diabetes are more prone to fungal infections. Red, itchy rash accompanied with blisters and scales appears on the folds and warm areas of the body such as in between toes, in the fold of elbows or the armpits, corners of mouth etc. The common fungal infections in diabetic people are candida albicans, ringworm, athlete’s foot, jock itch, and recurring vaginal yeast infection.

*People with diabetes suffer from more bacterial infections than people without the condition. Boils, folliculitis, styes on eyelids, carbuncles, and infections around the nails are common in diabetics.

*Necrobiosis Lipoidica are small solid bumps that appear on the skin. They look similar to pimples but if ignored they turn into patches of swollen and hard skin with a yellow or reddish-brown colour. Other indications are shiny skin surrounding the bumps, painful itchy skin, and visible blood vessels.

*Acanthosis nigricans is a pre-diabetes condition in which the skin of the armpits, groin, or neck turns very dark, thick, and velvety. This condition can also affect elbows, hands, and knees.

*Digital sclerosis has nothing to with excessive use of digital devices but it can make it difficult for you to use them. Symptoms include tight waxy skin around on hands and stiff fingers. The hard thickening skin makes it difficult to move the fingers and the disease can spread to toes, upper arms, knees, ankles, and even elbows.

How to take care of the issue?

“People with a history of diabetes in the family should also be on a look for symptoms of vitiligo and psoriasis. Regular medication, exercise, and a controlled diet to keep diabetes under control can help control most skin problems,” said Dr Kapoor.

*Keep skin clean and dry especially in the problem areas such as underarms, under the breasts, between toes and around the groin area.
*Check your body regularly for any problems
*Avoid extremely hot showers.
*Moisturise twice a day
*Use lip balm regularly
*Treat wound immediately
*Drink lots of water
*Do not pop a blister or try to shave a skin tag
*Wear an SPF 40 sunscreen every day
*Treat the cuts and wounds immediately
*Include foods such as cinnamon, jamun, aloe vera, berries, tomato and amla, curd, lemongrass etc. in your diet

Home remedies

*Use a skin pack made of two tablespoons of honey with half a teaspoon of turmeric.

Home remedies with turmeric can help tackle skin conditions related to diabetes. (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

*Apply on skin and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Honey moisturizes the skin and turmeric helps fight infections.
*Apply ghee on the lips and areas around it to prevent the lips from chapping and corners becoming too dry.
*Keep the skin moist by using oatmeal paste on the skin. Colloidal oatmeal also helps control itching on the skin.
*Add a quarter cup of baking soda to a warm bath. This will help relieve fungal infections.
*Mix some tea tree oil with your regular moisturiser or add a few drops to virgin coconut oil.
*Tea tree oil helps contain itchy rashes.
Consult your dermatologist to know more about correct skin management with diabetes. Do not ignore the skin condition for long that it becomes difficult to treat.

https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/diabetes-skin-conditions-need-to-know-7151086/