Your Skin May Be Telling You That You Have Diabetes
Published on July 9th, 2016
Diabetes is a metabolic disease in which the body is not able to produce enough insulin. The shortage of insulin elevates the glucose levels in the blood. Diabetes affects all systems of the body and has many symptoms and indicators.
Skin concerns are often the first warning signs of diabetes. Of course, any unusual skin condition warrants a visit to a dermatologist. Skin conditions that may indicate diabetes should be reported to your general physician.
Skin Conditions That May Be Indicative Of Diabetes:
Necrobiosis Lipodica appears as yellow or reddish-brown bumps resembling pimples which are surrounded by porcelain looking skin and broken blood vessels.
Acanthosis Nigricans is a skin condition which may appear in persons with prediabetes. It is characterized by patches of dark velvet-like skin on the neck, armpit, or groin area.
Digital Sclerosis indicates a change needed in medication. This skin concern manifests as a thickening of the skin. It is known for its orange peel-like appearance. The patches may be found on the fingers, arms, or shoulders.
Bullosis Diabetricorum resembles blisters. They sometimes appear in clumps, but there is no pain or irritation like you would have with a typical blister.
A persistent rash is a skin concern that should be looked at by a dermatologist. A rash with swelling and a discharge could indicate an infection. Chronic skin infections could be a symptom of diabetes or pre-diabetes.
Diabetic Ulcers or open sores are a sign of poor circulation.
Diabetic Dermopathy or shin spots are characterized by dark depressions on the shins, arms, or thighs.
Eruptive Xanthomatosis are small red or yellow bumps appearing on the buttocks, thighs, elbows or knees.
Granuloma Annulare manifests as red or flesh colored bumps on vast areas of the skin.
Extremely dry skin is another potential indicator of Diabetes.
Xantheiasm appears as yellow scaly patches around the eyelids.
Numerous skin tags could indicate Type 2 Diabetes.