Keratosis is a skin condition associated with type 1 diabetics. Keratosis occurs when keratin, a protein in the skin, forms hard plugs within hair follicles, leading to rough patches and small acne-like bumps on the skin, according to MayoClinic.com. Patients with anemia often have pale skin, which may be hard to diagnose in diabetics with keratosis. Other symptoms of anemia should be examined in diabetics with keratosis.
Cardiovascular Symptoms
Patients with anemia often have pale skin, pale gums and nail beds, cold hands and feet, and chest pain, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. However, anemic diabetics with keratosis skin disorder may not have pale skin. They may have pale gums and nail beds. Pale skin is caused by reduced flow of oxygen-rich blood to extremities. Hemoglobin, an oxygen-rich protein found inside red blood cells, gives blood its red color and anemic patients often have reduced hemoglobin. Reduced flow of oxygen-rich blood to the heart leads to heart attack and heart failure. Heart failure results in cold hands and feet due to the reduction of the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the body.
Respiratory Symptoms
Patients with anemia often experience shortness of breath due to lack of enough oxygen-rich blood in the lungs, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Patients may also experience fast breathing rates as they try to get more air into the lungs. Keratosis skin disorder does not interfere with the diagnosis of shortness of breath in diabetics suffering from anemia.
Nervous System Symptoms
Patients with anemia often experience fatigue due to the lack of enough hemoglobin in red blood cells, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein that carries oxygen-rich blood to body tissues. Patients with anemia may also experience headaches, dizziness and lightheadedness upon standing up. Keratosis skin disorder does not interfere with the diagnosis of nervous system symptoms in diabetics suffering from anemia.
Keratosis and Diabetes
Keratosis skin condition is more common in patients with diabetes, according to Patient.co.uk. Diabetes is characterized by high blood glucose levels, which affect the immune system and can lead to increased risks of various diseases, including skin conditions. Keratosis can be prevented and managed through proper skin care, according to MayoClinic.com.
