Dry Itchy Skin?
Thickening or
Pigmentation?
Check for Diabetes-related Skin problems
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Did You Know?
Skin complications in diabetes can affect up to 80% of patients and have significant consequences
Crack The Code!
Diabetes
and the Skin
Diabetes can cause various skin problems, often the first sign of the condition. These include dark patches in skin folds, dry and itchy skin, and scaly patches.
Skin changes can be a sign of underlying issues like high blood sugar levels. It's crucial to monitor for skin changes as they can appear even before diabetes is diagnosed. Early detection and management are key to avoiding serious skin complications
Skin Talk Interpretation
Skin Sensation Changes
Tingling, numbness, and dry skin can be early signs of skin issues in diabetes
What could Diabetes be saying?
Individuals with diabetes may experience tingling sensations or numbness and dry, itchy skin. These symptoms can indicate early nerve damage affecting the skin. Tingling and numbness often start in the extremities and can signal changes in blood vessels and nerves.
Dry skin is a common issue, particularly due to poor circulation associated with diabetes. Regular moisturizing, avoiding long hot showers, and maintaining stable blood sugar levels can help manage these symptoms.
Skin Condition Changes
Changes in foot shape, blisters, and thickened skin can indicate skin conditions in diabetes
What Could Diabetes Be Saying?
Skin conditions like blisters on hands, thick waxy patches on the back of hands, fingers, toes, and general skin thickening can occur in diabetes. These changes might be a result of nerve damage or circulation issues.
Monitoring for any changes in skin color or texture, especially in the extremities, is vital.
Seeking medical advice for any persistent or unusual skin conditions is crucial to prevent complications and ensure appropriate treatment
Skin Healing Concerns
Persistent sores, swelling, and slow healing can be serious skin issues in diabetes
What Could Diabetes Be Saying?
Persistent skin sores or rashes, significant changes in skin color or texture, frequent skin infections, and slow healing of skin can be alarming signs in people with diabetes. These issues may indicate poor circulation or compromised immune function due to high blood sugar levels.
Early treatment of these symptoms is critical to prevent serious complications, including the risk of infections leading to more severe health issues. Regularly inspecting the skin, maintaining good blood sugar control, and consulting with healthcare providers for any concerns are key steps in managing these skin conditions.
Nurturing
Your Skin
Dos and Don'ts
Do: Inspect your skin daily, keep blood sugar in target range, and seek timely medical advice for skin issues.
Don't: Ignore skin changes, neglect blood sugar control, or delay treatment for skin problems
Strengthen Your Skin
Supplements that may benefit skin health in diabetes include vitamins B, C, D, E, alpha-lipoic acid, and n-acetylcysteine. A healthy diet, rich in nutrients, can also support skin health. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplements to ensure they are suitable for diabetes management and overall health
References: Based on Published Medical Literature. All references are on file. For details please connect with us at hsa@obesityinternational.org