Type 2 diabetes and skin health
Type 2 diabetes affects how your body uses glucose, or sugar. Diabetes happens when your body either doesn’t respond effectively to insulin or doesn’t produce enough insulin to manage your blood sugar levels.
This can result in persistently high glucose levels, or hyperglycaemia. Over time, high blood sugar can cause damage throughout your body. For example, it can damage blood vessels, leave you more prone to infections, and slow down wound healing. These and other factors can lead to a range of skin problems.
Causes of diabetes-related skin problems
Here are some of the reasons you might be more prone to skin problems if you have type 2 diabetes:
Damage to blood vessels and nerves reduces circulation and blood flow to your skin. Decreased blood circulation can lead to changes in collagen, which can affect your skin’s texture, appearance, and ability to heal.
White blood cells become less able to defend you against infections.
Damage to skin cells can affect your ability to sweat and increase your sensitivity to temperature and pressure.
Nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy, can reduce sensation, making it harder to notice wounds or injuries. If untreated, injuries can lead to complications.
Symptoms to watch for
Up to 97% of people with diabetes will experience a related skin condition, according to a 2016 literature review.
For this reason, if you have type 2 diabetes, it’s important to watch out for:
changes in your skin
injuries or irritation to the skin surrounding insulin injection sites
cuts or wounds that are slow to heal, as slow-healing wounds are often entryways for secondary infections
cuts or wounds that appear infected
Scientists think diabetes may make the immune system less effective at fighting infections. In people with diabetes, bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens develop more easily and become harder to remove.
Bacterial and fungal infections
Some skin conditions that diabetes can cause stem from bacterial or fungal infections.
Bacterial infections
Bacteria can cause skin infections. Most commonly, these bacteria are Staphylococcus, or staph. Types of bacterial skin infections include:
styes, which cause swelling on the eyelids
boils
folliculitis, an infection of the hair follicles
carbuncles, deep infections of the skin and the tissue below it
infections around the nails
In the affected area, you may notice:
pain
warmth
swelling
redness or darkening of the skin on darker skin tones
The symptoms may be more severe in people with persistently high blood sugar levels. If the skin is broken, it can be easier for bacteria to enter, making infections more likely.
Fungal infections
Fungal infections result from the growth and spread of fungus or yeast. Like bacterial infections, they can affect anyone. However, people with diabetes may be more susceptible, especially if they are unable to manage their blood sugar levels effectively.
One common cause of fungal infections is Candida albicans, a yeast-like fungus. With this type of infection, you may notice:
areas of red, itchy, swollen skin
blistering or dry scales
a white discharge that resembles cottage cheese
Yeast fungus thrives in the following areas:
in the warm folds of the skin
under the breasts
in the groin
in the armpits
in the corners of the mouth
under the foreskin of the penis
Common skin irritations such as athlete’s foot, groin itch, and ringworm are fungal infections. They can itch, spread, and worsen if not treated with prescription medication.
Itching
Itching may be due to an infection, dry skin, or inadequate circulation. In people with diabetes, it may affect the lower legs in particular. It is important to avoid scratching, as this can break the skin and make it more susceptible to infection.
Treatment options
Managing blood glucose levels can help treat and reduce the risk of diabetes-related skin conditions. Other treatment options include:
over-the-counter (OTC) treatments
prescription treatments
alternative remedies
lifestyle habits for managing diabetes
OTC remedies
The following OTC remedies can help manage certain skin conditions associated with type 2 diabetes:
non-prescription antifungals,
topical steroid medications
moisturisers and lotions to relieve dryness
Prescription medications
In some cases, a doctor will prescribe medications or other treatments such as:
topical or oral antibiotics to treat skin infections
stronger antifungal medications
insulin therapy or other drugs to manage blood sugar levels
Some conditions may benefit from specific treatments.
Alternative remedies
Some non-drug remedies for diabetes-related skin problems are:
talcum powder to prevent friction in skin folds
lotion formulated for dry skin, which can reduce itching
aloe vera used topically (not orally)
Before using any natural or alternative remedies, consult your doctor. Even all-natural herbal supplements can interfere with any medications you’re currently taking.
Lifestyle options
It is not always possible to avoid diabetes, but some lifestyle habits may have an impact, including:
following a varied, diabetes-friendly diet
maintaining an exercise program
monitoring your blood sugar and taking measures to manage it
Lifestyle changes that may help with type 2 diabetes-related skin problems include:
taking measures to prevent dry skin
avoiding scratching dry skin, which increases the risk of infections by breaking the skin
treating wounds immediately
keeping your home humid during dry months
avoiding hot baths or showers, which can dry out your skin
inspecting your feet daily, especially if you have neuropathy, which can affect sensation
Each person is different, so make sure to consult your doctor before changing your diet or exercise program.
Extracts taken from Marina Basina, M.D. & Adrienne Santos-Longhurst from https://www.healthline.com