Skin Problems in Diabetic Patients
Certain skin problems are common in diabetics. Some diabetes-related skin conditions, such as thick, yellowish skin and diabetic dermopathy, are quite harmless because they usually don't lead to infection or more serious complications. However, other diabetic skin problems, such as yeast infection and foot ulcers, can be dangerous if not properly treated. People with diabetes should be aware of these skin conditions, some preventive options and possible treatments.
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Thick, Yellowish Skin
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Diabetics usually develop thick, waxy skin, especially on the upper back and fingers. This condition develops because abnormal glucose metabolism causes the skin to age and lose its elastic tissue more quickly. In addition, the skin may also have a yellowish tint due to large glucose residues. To prevent and treat this skin condition, try to improve your blood sugar control.
Dry Skin
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High blood glucose levels cause frequent urination and thus lead to dehydration that keeps the skin dry. Moreover, diabetic neuropathy may also inhibit the sweat glands and cause the skin to lack moisture. Always use mild, neutral soaps and apply moisturizer to your skin after a shower or bath. However, there are certain areas that should be kept dry due to their susceptibility to yeast infection. These areas include the toes, groin and underarms.
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Yeast Infection
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When your blood glucose levels are high, your body cannot fight infection very well, causing microorganisms to grow easily on the skin surface. Diabetics are susceptible to all types of skin infection, though yeast infection seems to be the most common. Inside the mouth and vaginal area, yeast infections have a white, curdlike appearance. On other areas of the body, they look more like small red spots with yellow pustules in the middle. Blood glucose control is key to avoiding a yeast infection. Also, try to maintain decent personal hygiene. Keep all body folds clean and dry. If you have a yeast infection, visit your doctor or try topical antifungal medications such as nystatin or clotrimazole.
Diabetic Dermopathy
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Diabetic dermopathy is a common skin condition in older adults with diabetes, especially men. People with diabetic dermopathy usually have small brownish spots on the shins, sometimes with scales on top. Trauma from neuropathy and high glucose levels on collagen are believed to cause this skin condition. Although diabetic dermopathy can last for years, it is harmless because it will not develop into ulcers or lead to skin infection. Controllling blood sugar levels is the best way to prevent diabetic dermopathy or improve this skin condition if it develops.
Foot Ulcers
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An ulcer is an open sore that is usually painless. Diabetics are more prone to foot ulcers than other people, due to diabetic neuropathy, or a loss of feeling in the feet. If these ulcers remain unnoticed and untreated, they can get infected and lead to amputation. To avoid foot ulcers, always wear comfortable shoes and socks. Check your feet daily for any open sores. If you find an ulcer, see your doctor immediately and try not to walk on it. Don't try to clean the wound yourself. Diabetics' wounds need professional care.
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