Diabetes and Skin Problems

Diabetics because of high glucose in their blood especially for a long time do develop many complications and that includes problems with skin. It is believed that 1/3 of those with diabetes have skin conditions that are because of their diabetes. But, the good news is that these conditions of the skin are preventable and can be treated successfully when found early. When not found early, those skin problems which are not properly cared for in a diabetic can cause minor problems to turn into serious problems with some severe consequences.

Some skin conditions caused by diabetes

Scleroderma diabeticorum

Skin which thickens on the back of neck and upper back. This affects those with Type-2 diabetes but is very rare. Usually happens when blood glucose is out of control. To treat, must get glucose levels under control and also use moisturizers and lotions to keep the skin softened.

Vitiligo

Problem which affects coloration of skin. Pigment cells are destroyed which causes patches of skin that is discolored. This affects the abdomen and chest most often and can also happen on face around the nostrils, mouth, and eyes. Treatments include topical steroids, treatments with ultraviolet light and tattooing. Sunscreen with SPF of 30 and higher is needed to stop sunburn on the skin that is discolored.

Insulin resistance skin problems

Acanthosis nigricans

Skin condition which causes thickening and darkening skin in some area – the skin folds. This skin is slightly raised and described as “velvety” and becomes brown or tan. Often can be seen on the sides or back of the neck, under breast, groin and armpits. Usually happens in those who are overweight. It is a sign of developing pre-diabetes.

Problems associated with reduced blood supply to the skin

Problems with skin linked to atherosclerosis

Condition of atherosclerosis is when the blood vessels narrow. It is found in vessels near or in the heart. This can cause skin problems which are related to oxygen loss, such as shiny and thinning skin on shins, hair loss, discolored and thickened toenails and skin that is cold. Feet and legs heal slowly when injured.

Diabetic dermopathy

Known as shin spots which are caused as result of changes to the blood vessels which supply the skin. Dermopathy look like shiny oval or round lesions on skin which is thin. Found on lower front parts of the lower leg. No treatment is needed.

Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum

Changes in collagen and fat content beneath the skin cause this problem. Skin becomes reddened and thinned. Problems are found on parts of the lower legs and can ulcerate. Often is painful and itchy. Treatment is not necessary as long as the sores don’t break open. If they do, see your doctor.

Eruptive xanthomatosis

Occurs when triglyceride levels are at extremely high. Because of resistance to insulin which is very severe, it is difficult for body to clear fat from the blood. The eruptive part of this skin condition appears firm, yellow, waxy pea-like bumps surrounded by halos that are red and they are very itchy. Usually located on the buttocks and face. Treatment is to control the level of fats in blood known as lipid-lowering drugs.

Digital sclerosis

Condition where skin on the fingers, toes as well as hands turn waxy, thick and tight. A stiffness of the joints of the finger can also occur. Moisturizers and lotions can help with softening the skin.

Rashes, Blisters, and Bumps

Diabetic blisters (bullous diabeticorum)

Blisters which resemble burn blisters. Occurs on hands, fingers, feet, toes, legs and forearms. Blisters are painless and heal on their own. Occurs in those with diabetic neuropathy and severe diabetes.

Disseminated granuloma annulare

Sharply defined, arc-shaped or ring areas on skin. Rashes occur on the ears and fingers as well as abdomen and chest. Rash is red-brown, red, or skin colored. Often medication of topical steroids can help.

Bacterial and Fungus Infections

Bacterial infections

Many different kinds of bacterial infections which affect the skin of diabetics. Staphylococcus is most common. These bacteria can cause “boils”, which is the inflammation from hair follicles, styes on the eyelids, bacterial infections of nails. Requires treatment with antibiotics.

Fungal Infections

Yeast fungus known as “Candida albicans” responsible for most fungal infections with those who are diabetics. Can be found in many areas of the body. There is one potentially fatal infection with a fungus known as Mucormycosis is seen in diabetics which occurs in the nasal cavities but can spread to the brain and eyes.

Problems with multiple causes

Itching

Known as pruritus, several causes including dry skin, yeast infections, poor flow for blood. Using lotion will help keep skin moist and soft.

These are just a few of the plethora of skin problems that can affect a person with diabetes. The best way to prevent skin problems is to take care of the skin by keeping it moisturized and clean as well as checking daily for skin problems. Also keeping your diabetes under control can avert many of these problems.