Identifying the symptoms of diabetes that manifest in the skin, is often a sign that glucose levels have been high for a prolonged period.
symptoms of skin diabetes
The skin can show several signals that should alert us about the need to evaluate and better control our diabetes:
1. Acanthosis nigricans
- Description: It appears as dark spots or stripes of velvety skin on body folds such as neck, armpits, groin, hands, elbows or knees.
- Cause: generally caused by insulin resistance, and is common in overweight people.
- Treatment: There are creams that can help treat these spots, but it is essential to consult a doctor for adequate treatment and diabetes management.
2. Diabetic dermopathy
- Description: Known as "tibial spots" or "Canillas."They are round or linear spots, red or brown, located mainly on the front of the legs.
- Cause: related to changes in small blood vessels that feed the skin.
- Treatment: Generally, they do not require specific treatment since they are not painful or cause itching.
3. Lipoid necrobiosis
- Description: It starts as yellow, brown or reddish spots that can evolve to swollen and hardened skin plates.
- Cause: It is related to the deterioration of collagen in the skin and changes in local vascularization.
- Treatment: Although it has no cure, it is important to control the symptoms with the support of a dermatologist and maintain glucose levels under control.
What to do?
If you notice any of these symptoms on your skin, it is essential to take measures:
- Medical consultation: visit your doctor or dermatologist to obtain adequate diagnosis and treatment.
- glucose control: keep your glucose levels under control through the prescribed diet, exercise and medication.
- Skin care: Keep a skin care routine that includes soft cleaning and hydration, avoiding products that can irritate the skin.
- Continuing Education: Find out about the symptoms and the management of diabetes to be able to act proactively in the care of your health.
Recognizing the early signs of skin diabetes complications is vital to avoid major problems.Every small step you take to handle your diabetes can have a significant impact on your general health.
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