Some people prefer to define diabetes as a silent killer. While cancer takes all the blame for showing the maximum aggression, diabetes creeps slowly and steadily to bring a lot of "surprises" for you. You may observe thickening of skin in your neck of upper back or you may get depressed by skin discoloration.
It is estimated that one-third of those with diabetes have skin complications because of uncontrolled sugar levels. However, this skin problem can be prevented and treated successfully if detected early. But if left untreated, this minor problem may lead to serious consequences. People with diabetes may suffer from a variety of skin problems that include bacterial and fungal infections and certain diabetes related skin problems.
The Skin Problems Associated With High Blood Sugar Level
- Scleroderma Diabeticorum: It is generally caused by diabetes type 2. The skin around the neck and the upper back thickens on account of uncontrolled blood sugar levels. But it is a very rare case.
- Vitiligo: This condition is characterized by skin discoloration. The pigment cells get destroyed and discolored skin patches form. Face, nostrils, mouth and eyes are the areas that are mostly affected.
The Insulin Resistance Skin Problems
- Acanthosis nigricans: Skin thickening and darkening occur in the skin folds. A raised velvety brown or tan texture is formed in that particular area. Areas affected are back of neck, under breast, groin and armpits. Mostly seen in overweight people, it is an indication of pre-diabetes.
Skin Conditions Caused Due to Reduced Blood Supply
- Atherosclerosis Related Skin Problems: Atherosclerosis may cause skin problems which are related to a deficiency in oxygen supply. The symptoms include shiny and thinning skin on shins, hair loss and discolored and thickened toe nails. The skin also feels cold to touch. People with an injury to their feet and legs may experience a delay in healing.
- Diabetic Dermopathy: As a result of uncontrolled blood glucose level, there are changes in the blood vessels that supply blood to the skin. This causes the development of shin spots in the skin. It looks like shiny oval or round lesions. These spots are mainly seen on the lower fronts of the lower leg.
- Necrobiosis Lipoidica Diabeticorum: This is due to the change in collagen and fat content under the skin. The skin becomes reddened and extremely thin. As a result, the skin becomes very sensitive and itchy and sometimes it may produce a painful sensation too.
- Eruptive Xanthomatosis: This may occur when the blood glucose and the triglyceride level go out of control. Due to insulin resistance, it becomes difficult for the body to clear the fat from the blood. It appears like a firm waxy pea - just like yellow bumps on the skin. The bumps are usually seen in the face, buttocks, behind the arms and legs.
- Digital Sclerosis: Skin thickening and tightening occurs in toes, fingers and hands. Joint stiffness may also occur.
- Diabetic Blisters (Bullous Diabeticorum): Blisters may appear around fingers, hands, feet, legs, forearms and toes. These blisters resemble burn blisters. They are often painless and sometimes heal on their own. This skin problem occurs in severe cases of diabetes and neuropathy.
- Disseminated Granuloma Annulare: Arc-shaped or ring areas which are sharply defined, are seen on skin. Reddish brown, red or skin colored rashes are found to form on the ears, fingers as well as on the abdomen and chest.
Other Associated Skin Problems
- Bacterial and fungal infection.
- Staphylococcus bacteria are responsible for causing skin infection like "boils" and styes in the eyelids and nails. It is a very common skin problem and can be treated with antibiotics.
- Candida albicans are responsible for fungal infections and can be found in nasal cavities. It can spread to brain and eyes. At times, it can even prove to be fatal.
- Itching is another skin problem associated with diabetes. This can be due to multiple causes that include dry skin, yeast infections and poor blood flow.
Managing Skin Problem With Diabetes
Keeping blood glucose level under control is the most important step in preventing skin related complications. Proper skincare also has its own impact in preventing diabetes related skin conditions. This is what you need to do:
- After washing the body with mild soap, make sure to rinse and dry yourself properly. Check in areas like armpits, under the breast, between the legs and between the toes.
- Always keep your skin moist. Use a good body moisturizer, lotion or cream after every wash.
- Keep yourself hydrated. Drink enough water and fluids to keep your skin moist and healthy.
- Wear cotton under garments, as it allows moving air around your body better.
- Check your skin regularly to make sure that you have no dry, red-rashes, boils or sore spots which may lead to infections.
- Make sure to seek professional advice whenever you see any abnormal skin problem in your body.
In most cases, diabetes related skin problems can be prevented and can also be treated on time. Never ignore any minor skin problem. Initial signs or indications in the form of redness, dry skin or change in the skin color should be treated immediately.
