WHY DO DIABETIC PEOPLE SUFFER WITH SKIN PROBLEMS ?

Are you suffering from diabetes-related skin disorder? It is important to be aware of potentially serious skin problems related to it and consult your doctor before the problem turns serious. In some cases, people with diabetes develop skin conditions that can affect anyone. About a third of people with diabetes are prone to skin problems at some point. Examples of these conditions include bacterial or fungal infections, itching. However, people with diabetes also are more prone to such infections. These include diabetic dermopathy, eruptive xanthomatosis necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum. In most cases, skin problems in diabetes can be managed with early diagnosis and treatment.

WHAT ARE THE COMMON SKIN PROBLEMS SEEN IN DIABETICS

1) Bacterial infections: More common in diabetics. One is sty, which is an infection of glands of eyelids. Another is a boil, an infection of hair follicles.

2) Fungal Infections: Candida albicans, a yeast-like fungus, is responsible for fungal infections that people with diabetes get. It leads to itchy rashes and red areas on the skin with tiny blisters and scales.

3) Itching: Itching can be caused by a yeast infection, leading to dry skin or poor blood flow. When it is due to poor circulation, it is prevalent in the legs. Using skin lotions can make your skin soft and prevent this type of itching.

4) Allergic reactions: Caused by insulin or anti-hyperglycemic pills, as well to insect bites, and food.

5) Diabetic Dermopathy: Caused by changes in small blood vessels, and it looks like light brown, scaly patches. Often seen on the front of the legs and may be mistaken as age spots. They are harmless and don't need treatment.

6) Digital Sclerosis: Accompanied by thick skin on toes, fingers, and hands.

7) Eruptive Xanthomatosis: It indicates strict control of blood glucose level is needed. There are firm yellow pea-like enlargements in the skin. Each bump has a red halo and may itch.

8) Vitiligo: Affects skin color resulting in patches of discolored skin.

WHY ARE THESE SKIN PROBLEMS SEEN IN DIABETES?

These skin problems are an indication that your glucose level in the body is not under control. Follow your health care provider's advice regarding nutrition, exercise, and medication. Keep your blood sugar level within the range recommended by your physician. Talk to your dietician to help you formulate a diet plan.

HOW TO PREVENT AND MANAGE THE SKIN PROBLEMS IN DIABETES

• Take proper of your skin by keeping it dry and clean, as moisture tends to trigger fungal infections, especially in diabetes. Pat your skin properly after the bath.
• Avoid very hot baths and showers. Use moisturizing soaps for dry skin. Use a lotion that your physician suggests after bathing. Keep the skin between toes dry no lotions there.
• Use lotions especially in the winter to avoid dry skin.
• Treat minor cuts and scrapes immediately. Use soap and water only. See your doctor right away for a major cut, infection, or burn.
• Take care of your feet to prevent minor wounds turning into the ulcer. Visit your podiatrist in every 6 months.
• Keep the name of a dermatologist in your phone book saved, in case you cannot cure your skin condition.
• Drink lot of water to keep your skin moist and healthy.
• Don t try home remedies without consulting doctor, as it can interfere with your diabetes medications.
• Try to use non-prescription anti-fungal cream (clotrimazole) for fungal infections.
• Consult your physician, if skin lesions are not getting better in 2-3 days.

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