10 Diabetic Skin Problems - Everyday Health
About a third of people with diabetes will develop skin problems, such as skin sores or a leg rash. In fact, according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), some skin problems can be warning signs of diabetes in those who are undiagnosed. The good news is that most skin problems with diabetes can be prevented or treated easily if they're caught early.
Keeping proper control of your blood sugar (glucose) can prevent diabetes skin problems and many other diabetes symptoms from happening in the first place.
When diabetes affects your skin, causing skin sores or diabetes rash, it is a sign your blood sugar levels are too high.
If you notice any skin problems, it is time to talk to your doctor. Get tested for diabetes if you have yet to be diagnosed. Work with your doctor and diabetes nurse educator to learn how to control your diabetes with diet, exercise, and medications, if needed.
Additionally, see a dermatologist or your primary care provider about any diabetes skin problems. Some diabetes skin problems don't look too serious but could lead to future complications if left untreated.
"For the most part, control of diabetes can help with related skin issues," says Justin Ko, MD, the director and chief of medical dermatology at Stanford Health Care in Palo Alto, California. "I'm always adamant that my diabetic patients take aggressive care of their skin and health in general. For the skin, moisturization; checking feet and legs daily for any blisters, sores, and skin breaks (especially between the toes); and nail care are all extremely important. Nail and foot fungus can lead to skin cracks and breaks, allowing bacteria to enter and cause infection."
Here are 10 diabetes skin problems:
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