How can diabetes affect the skin?
Diabetes can affect many parts of the body, including the skin. According to the American Diabetes Association, skin problems can sometimes even be an early sign of diabetes. High blood glucose can contribute to dry skin and may make it harder for the body to fight certain infections.
This can increase the chance of developing some bacterial or fungal skin infections. Not every skin problem in a person with diabetes is directly caused by diabetes, but some conditions occur more frequently in people with the disease.
Common skin problems
People with diabetes can experience several different types of skin conditions. These include bacterial and fungal infections, itching, and dry skin. There are also several skin conditions that are more closely associated with diabetes. Diabetic dermopathy, for example, can cause small, light-brown patches on the skin.
Another condition, called acanthosis nigricans, can cause darker, thicker areas of skin, often around skin folds. Other diabetes-related conditions include diabetic blisters and necrobiosis lipoidica. Some of these conditions may be harmless, while others may require medical attention. Because of this, changes in the skin should not be ignored.
Why blood glucose management matters
Keeping blood glucose within the range recommended by a healthcare professional is an important part of diabetes care. High glucose levels can contribute to dry skin and reduce the body’s ability to defend against some infections. Good diabetes management supports more than blood glucose itself. It can also help reduce the risk of certain complications that affect different parts of the body, including the skin.
Taking care of your skin
Basic skin care can help prevent some problems. Keeping the skin clean and dry, using moisturizer when needed, and avoiding very hot showers can help protect against excessive dryness. Small cuts and other injuries should also be cleaned and monitored. This is especially important for the feet, because diabetes can affect nerves and circulation, making foot problems more serious.
People with diabetes should also pay attention to changes such as persistent itching, unusual patches, blisters, or signs of infection. A healthcare professional or dermatologist can help determine what is causing a skin problem and whether treatment is needed.
Why skin health matters
Skin health is easy to overlook when talking about diabetes, but it can provide important information about what is happening in the body. Some skin conditions can be connected to diabetes, while others may become more likely when blood glucose is not well controlled.
Taking care of the skin, paying attention to changes, and discussing concerns with a healthcare professional are all parts of comprehensive diabetes care. Diabetes affects the whole body, and protecting the skin is another way to protect overall health.