If you have diabetes, you are more susceptible to skin problems. This is partially due to the constriction of the blood vessels when your blood sugar is high. Keeping your blood sugar under control is the best way to avoid any complication. However, even if you have things under control, you will still have poor immunity to bacterial and fungal infections. A cut that would not be a big deal to a nondiabetic could end up causing a diabetic to lose a limb. Aside from cuts open sores, there are other skin conditions you will be more prone to. Here are a few of them and when you should see a dermatologist to be treated.
Diabetic Dermopathy
This condition presents itself in the form of brown, scaly, round or oval spots on the skin. While they are nothing more than spots (the same thing as freckles or age spots), you may want to find a way to reduce their appearance for esthetic reasons. A dermatologist can prescribe a cream or lotion to help make them disappear.
Necrobiosis Lipoidica Diabeticorum
Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum appears to be small, raised, red spots on the skin. However, these spots go deeper into your skin, can be painful, and often itch. In addition, these spots may break open. Once open, they become an entryway for bacteria that can cause an infection. It is best to see a dermatologist at the first sign of NLD so you do not have to worry about infections.
Disseminated Granuloma Annulare
This disease appears as a rash with raised, round or arc-shaped areas on the skin. The lesions may be itchy if your skin is dry, increasing the risk of tearing the skin and allowing bacteria to enter. As long as the lesions do not open, the problem is strictly aesthetic. A dermatologist can prescribe medications that will heal the rash and cure the disease.
Dry, Cracked Skin
Diabetics have a tendency towards dry skin. If left unattended, this can cause cracks or open sores. Be sure to always clean and apply lotion to your skin to keep it from becoming dry and cracked. If you do not see improvement or the sores are not healed within two weeks, make an appointment with a dermatologist at a clinic like Advanced Dermatology Care.
It is imperative that you take good care of your skin as a diabetic. If you have any peripheral neuropathy, you may not feel a rash, cut, or open wound. Be sure to check over your skin daily, cleaning any sores and applying an antibacterial ointment or fungicide as needed. See the doctor when needed. The sooner you contact the doctor, the easier it will be to heal the problem.
Share18 August 2016
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