DIABETES AND SKIN CONDITIONS

AVEON HEALTH

Diabetes Experts

 

While Diabetes may be described as a “Silent Killer,” many of its symptoms are far from hidden!  And, this is exactly the case where Skin Conditions are concerned.  In general terms, these Skin Conditions are the results of a reduced blood flow to the skin, which leads to changes in the skin’s collagens.  Since over half of the individuals with Type 2 Diabetes are plagued by Skin Issues, we should be aware of the following things to watch for:

• Changes in the skin
• Cuts or wounds that appear infected
• Cuts or wounds that are slow to heal, as these may lead to secondary infections
• Injuries or irritation to the skin surrounding Insulin Injection sites

One of the main concerns, as can be imagined, are the afore mentioned Infections.  There are two major types to be concerned about:  Bacterial and Fungal.

BACTERIAL – The two major issues in this realm are Staphylococcus (Staph) and Streptococcus (Strep).  The effects find that the areas involved are often painful and warm to the touch with swelling and redness.  This can lead to carbuncles, which may need to be lanced by a doctor.  Additional issues might include boils; styes (infections around the eyes) and even infection of the hair follicles.

FUNGAL – Appearing as areas of red, itchy, swollen skin surrounded by blistering or dry scales.  This most often manifests itself in such areas as the under the breast, in the warm folds of the skin; in the armpits; in the groin and in the corners of the mouth.

There are, unfortunately, yet other Skin Conditions that may need to be dealt with.  One of these is Digital Sclerosis, which usually affects skin on the hands, fingers, and toes.  It can be treated with lotions, moisturizers and maintaining Blood Sugar levels.

There are several ways of dealing with these Skin Conditions, including both Over the Counter and Prescription Medications.  In fact, there are even some everyday items that can help, such as applying talcum powder and/or lotions formulated for dry skin to the affected areas.  Even Aloe Vera applied to the affected areas often proves beneficial.

Though fairly rare, another Skin Condition a Diabetic may encounter are Diabetic Blisters.  Though unsightly, Diabetic Blisters are painless and normally heal on their own.  More often plaguing men than women, they most often appear on legs, feet, and toes though they also can develop on hands, fingers, and arms.

Diabetic Blisters can be treated with Antibiotic Creams or Ointments.  They are often bandaged to protect them from further problems, including the onset of infections.  Their cause is unknown, and can be best thwarted by protecting your feet by wearing both shoes and socks!

 

While many people encounter problems with their skin, if you encounter if any of the issues we have discussed here, it might behoove you to contact your doctor and see if, in fact, they are being influenced by the fact that you may also be battling Type 2 diabetes!!!

 

If you, or someone you know, needs help in managing their Diabetes, please call AVEON HEALTH at 480-300-4663 to make an appointment with a member of our staff and allow them to escort you down the path to an improved quality of life for you and your loved ones!

This Blog was written, in great part, with information gleaned from the following sources:

 

 

Type 2 Diabetes And Skin Health: Conditions And Treatment | DiabetesTalk.Net

 

Everything You Should Know About Diabetic Blisters (healthline.com)