As the largest organ of the human body, the skin has many functions--to protect organs, regulate body temperature, regulate water loss, synthesize chemicals and house immune system and sensory cells. It also tells us when things go wrong in the body. People with diabetes are at a higher risk for skin problems than the general population. The American Diabetic Association claims that about 33 percent of diabetics will experience a skin disorder related to diabetes, often the first sign of the disease. The ADA says if these conditions are caught early, they can be treated easily.
Bacterial Infections
High blood sugar, says the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, means greater fluid loss, which leads to dry, itchy skin. Skin that is too dry cracks and provides an opportunity for bacteria to enter the body. The sugary feast provided by high glucose is an environment that supports bacterial growth. Common bacterial infections include inflammation of the hair follicles, glands of the eyelids and skin around the nails. These areas can be swollen, red, hot to the touch and tender.
Fungal Infections
Fungal infections are typically yeast-related, itchy rashes that occur most often in moist areas such as the groin or corners of the mouth. Common infections include jock itch, ringworm and vaginal yeast infections. They and are treated with medication from a doctor.
Poor Circulation
Diabetes causes damage in the blood vessels and capillaries as a result of high blood sugar. When this happens, circulation to the arms and legs can become poor, causing improper oxygen supply to the tissues. When this happens, the legs can be especially itchy, according to the ADA. Damage caused by poor circulation can also manifest in tingling or numbness in the hands and feet.
Diabetic Dermopathy
Diabetic dermopathy is a skin condition that consists of brown, scaly spots on the shins or bony areas of the body, similar in appearance to age spots. DermNetNZ.org states that approximately 30 percent of diabetics will have this skin disorder. It generally tends to occur in people with a longer history of diabetes, the elderly or those who have had diabetic retinopathy, peripheral neuropathy or nephrology--kidney disease. This condition is not likely to occur as the first sign of diabetes. The cause is not certain but seems to be related to extensive blood vessel and nerve damage, especially in bony areas with prior trauma. Another possible cause is poorly controlled blood glucose. The good news is that with proper blood sugar control and time, these spots may fade or go away altogether.
Considerations
If you suspect you may have skin symptoms of diabetes or extreme thirst, frequent urination, increase in hunger, weight loss, blurred vision, slow healing wounds or numbness in the hands and feet, see your physician for a complete examination. Blood sugar that is consistently high and undiagnosed can cause damage to eyes, blood vessels and nerves. If you have an increased risk for diabetes, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, weight problems or a family history, see your physician regularly to monitor any changes.
