Navigating the Challenges of Skin Conditions in Diabetes

Skin Conditions – One of the Most Typical Indications of Diabetes

Did you know that diabetes may have an impact on several body parts, including your skin? As a matter of fact, one of the most prevalent indications of diabetes is skin abnormalities.

Skin complications from diabetes are frequently an indication that blood sugar levels have been elevated lately. Even before you are diagnosed with diabetes, you may start noticing some skin changes.

Some skin conditions are alarming while others might only affect your appearance. In any case, it is best to be safe than sorry. You should be on the lookout for any alterations in your skin and discuss any worries you have with your doctor. Fortunately, if detected early enough, most skin disorders that are diabetes-associated may be able to be prevented or treated quickly.

Different Skin Conditions Due to Diabetes

Skin diseases can affect anyone, but people with diabetes are more prone to developing them. Read more about some skin disorders that can arise in people with diabetes and how to treat or prevent them.

1. Dry and Itchy Skin

• Dry, itchy skin can occur in those with diabetes due to poor blood circulation. Also, excessive urination, commonly seen in people with diabetes, can lead to fluid loss from the body cells, making the skin dry.
• Managing diabetes may help improve the condition. Using moisturisers can be beneficial in these cases. Exercise can help by improving blood flow.  

2. Blisters

• On the backs of the hands and feet, as well as the legs and forearms, painless blisters may develop. It’s an uncommon illness and is majorly seen in people living with diabetes-associated neuropathy.

3. Diabetes-related Dermopathy

• This condition, also known as shin spots, presents as spots on the shin of the legs.
• These are seen as light-brown, rounded scaly patches that resemble age spots. There are usually no other symptoms and the lesions are not worrisome.  

4. Hard, Thickened Skin (Digital Sclerosis)

• Sometimes people with type 1 diabetes may develop thick, waxy skin that has hardened, particularly on their hands which may lead to the stiffening of joints of their fingers, making it challenging to hold objects and even work. If diabetes is not controlled, the condition may spread throughout the body.
• A variety of treatments for this condition are available, including physiotherapy and blood sugar level control.

5. Yellow, Reddish, or Brown Patches on the Skin (Necrobiosis Lipoidica Diabeticorum or NLD)

• Women are more likely to have this lower-leg itchy rash. Raised, red, glossy areas with a yellow centre may be apparent in NLD. Blood vessels may become prominent in the affected area. Accompanying symptoms may include mild discomfort to pain.  For treatment, you ought to visit a dermatologist.

6. Darker Area of Skin That Feels Like Velvet (Acanthosis Nigricans)

• Dark, velvet-like bands of discoloured skin are usually seen on the neck, armpit, and groin, characteristic of this illness. Usually, obese/overweight persons are affected. This condition is presumably a sign of insulin resistance and treating the underlying diabetes can help resolve these patches of dark skin.

7. Red or Skin-Coloured Raised Bumps (Granuloma Annulare)

• The widespread form of this rash, which usually affects healthy children and young adults, can be seen in individuals with diabetes. The rash is present on the fingers, hands, feet, and ears, and may appear skin-toned, reddish or reddish-brown. Although it does not hurt, it could itch. This condition often resolves spontaneously but may require the application of topical steroids in some cases.

8. An Outbreak of Small, Reddish-Yellow Bumps (Eruptive Xanthomatosis)

• This rash presents as small pea-sized, firm, yellow skin lumps that are surrounded by red bumps and may cause itching. Most frequently, such rash appears on the backs of the hands, feet, arms, legs, and buttocks. Men with type 1 diabetes along with high cholesterol levels are more likely to get this rash.

9. Bacterial and Fungal Skin Infections

• People with diabetes frequently get skin infections caused by bacteria or fungi.
• A skin infection will cause one or more of the following symptoms:
  • Skin that is warm and tender on touching and swollen in appearance is usually suggestive of a bacterial infection.
  • A rash that is moist, itchy, and occasionally develops small blisters or scales, usually between the folds of the skin is suggestive of a fungal infection.
  • Any part of your body, including the space between your toes, the region under your nails, and the scalp, might develop a skin infection.
  • Antifungal and antibiotic medicine may be beneficial.

10. Lichen Planus

• This is another skin condition that may be seen in individuals with diabetes. It presents as white, lacy, intersecting lines mostly seen on the ankles and wrist, but may occur in the mouth as well. The condition usually requires topical or oral treatment that can be best suggested by a dermatologist.

What Should Be Done to Avoid Skin Issues Brought on by Diabetes?

Maintaining blood sugar levels within the range advised by your healthcare practitioner is the best thing you can do to avoid any diabetes-associated skin issues. Taking proper care of your skin can reduce your risk of developing a skin rash, an infection, or a wound that is difficult to heal.

Follow these recommendations to avoid skin issues:

• Check for any developing rashes, redness, infections, or sores on your skin every day.
• Use a humidifier to increase the humidity in your house. This will retain the skin moisture and will prevent skin drying.
• Drink enough liquids to help you stay hydrated and maintain healthy skin.
• Use a moisturising soap and warm (not hot) water in the shower. Skin dries out after bathing in a tub, so avoid that.
• Avoid excessive rubbing with a towel to dry the skin, and be sure to dry between the fingers, toes, and skin folds.
• Use fragrance-free standard skin moisturisers after taking a shower, while your skin is still wet and supple, to keep the skin moisturised for longer.
• Use soap and water to clean cuts and other wounds right away. Use antibiotic ointments only if your doctor has prescribed them.
• If you do develop any skin issues, do consult a dermatologist for their management.

Be Vigilant and Take Care of Your Skin

Excellent health is represented by healthy and disease-free skin. It is crucial to visit your doctor if you observe any strange skin symptoms. Early identification and treatment are key to preventing significant consequences from diabetes-related skin issues.