SKIN MANIFESTATIONS OF DIABETES

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Diabetes mellitus is a systemic disease. What this means is that the symptoms from disease cannot be localized to one area alone, rather, it affects several of our bodily organs. The skin, the largest organ in the body, is not spared. The effects of diabetes on the skin can range from a mild rash to a non-healing wound. Still, any way the dermatologic manifestations of diabetes may present, the cornerstone for managing it is to maintain good blood sugar control.

Bacterial skin infections almost always begin as simple boils, swollen and painful nodules that contain pus, most commonly caused by the bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus. If neglected, they can eventually grow larger and may have to be incised to drain out the pus. Oral or topical antibiotics are usually prescribed.

Most diabetics are also prone to contracting fungal infections. The areas of the skin that are oftentimes affected are the skinfolds, like the groin, and in between the toes, but they can appear anywhere. This particular skin infection can present as itching, red, and scaly patches that would need a topical antifungal to cure them.

There is also a condition called diabetic dermopathy wherein the skin can show brownish and scaly patches, especially in the lower extremities. This can progress to deeper and larger lesions, and makes the skin appear swollen, taut, and discolored.

Some people may notice that there are certain areas, such as the neck and the armpits that appear darker and thicker than the rest of the body. This is called acanthosis nigricans, a skin condition that can hallmark one’s predisposition to having diabetes. If this is present, make sure to get a simple blood sugar test to determine if you are indeed diabetic.

The named skin conditions are not exclusive to diabetics alone. However, diabetics are more prone to getting these dermatologic problems due to several reasons. First of all, for uncontrolled cases, there is a concomitant depression in the immune system which makes them more prone to having the skin infections from either fungal or bacterial causes. Next, the high level of glucose in the blood stream makes the circulation of diabetics a little more sluggish than in normal people. This poor circulation depletes the skin of the supply of nutrients necessary to maintain its health and integrity.

As mentioned, it is paramount to have regular blood sugar monitoring and of course, good control of the blood sugar levels. Diet and lifestyle medications also play a major role in ensuring long-term care for diabetics. Aside from these, maintaining good skin hygiene should be emphasized to diabetic patients, since this will prevent them from getting infectious skin diseases. Make sure that the skin is kept clean and dry at all times, especially in the area of the skinfolds. Do not neglect any cut of course, even minor ones. Make sure that any wound is properly disinfected and cared for. Finally, make sure to consult a physician of any new skin lesions detected.

Arif Rahim

CheapGlucoseTestStrips.com

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SKIN MANIFESTATIONS OF DIABETES