Diabetes is a common chronic disease that not only affects the body’s metabolic function, but can also cause a series of problems on the skin. Understanding the relationship between diabetes and skin conditions is essential for patient health management.
Common effects of diabetes on the skin
Itch: Due to the high blood sugar level stimulating the peripheral nerves, coupled with urine sugar stimulation and local infection, the skin itches unbearably.
Ulcers: Because diabetes affects blood vessels and nerve function, the skin suffers from insufficient blood supply and insensitivity, making it easily injured and difficult to heal.
Gangrene: It is relatively serious and is mostly caused by microvascular disease, leading to tissue ischemia and necrosis, especially common in the anterior tibia and lateral malleolus of the lower leg.
Causes of skin problems caused by diabetes
Neuropathy: Long-term high blood sugar levels in diabetic patients may damage nerves and cause neuropathy. This nerve damage can affect the skin’s sensory and regulatory functions, making the skin more susceptible to dryness, itching and other problems.
Drug side effects: Some drugs used to control diabetes may have side effects that affect skin health. For example, some hypoglycemic drugs may cause skin allergies, erythema and other reactions.
Microbial infection caused by blood sugar: The high blood sugar environment provides favorable conditions for the growth of microorganisms, making diabetic patients more susceptible to bacterial and fungal infections, thereby causing various skin problems.
Ways to improve skin condition in diabetic patients
Control blood sugar
Controlling blood sugar is the key to improving skin conditions. Patients should follow the doctor’s advice, take hypoglycemic drugs or inject insulin on time, and test blood sugar regularly to ensure that blood sugar levels are stable within the normal range.
Pay attention to diet control , choose foods with a low glycemic index, such as whole grains, vegetables and fruits, and reduce the intake of sugar and high-calorie foods.
Change your lifestyle
Maintaining a good work and rest routine and ensuring adequate sleep can help regulate endocrine system and alleviate skin problems.
Pay attention to personal hygiene, take a bath and change clothes frequently, keep your skin clean and dry, and avoid infection.
Take a balanced diet with diversified food choices and reasonable nutrition. Increase the intake of vegetables, fruits and high-quality protein, and reduce greasy and spicy foods.
Avoid smoking and drinking, as these bad habits can add to the burden on your skin.
Rational use of drugs
For skin problems such as itching and infection, topical medications such as antipruritic agents, antibiotic ointments, etc. should be used reasonably under the guidance of a doctor.
When taking the medication, you must strictly follow the dosage and usage instructions of the doctor, and pay attention to the skin’s reaction. If allergic symptoms such as redness, swelling, and increased itching occur, stop the medication immediately and seek medical attention.
Strategies to prevent diabetes-related skin problems
Control blood sugar
Patients need to strictly follow the treatment plan prescribed by the doctor, including a reasonable diet, moderate exercise, and taking medication on time.
Diet: Choose low-sugar foods such as corn and sweet potatoes, as well as high-protein, low-fat foods such as beef and fish. Avoid high-sugar and high-fat foods.
Exercise: Aerobic training: jogging, cycling, etc. Anaerobic training: pull-ups, squats, etc.
Monitor your blood sugar regularly.
Pay attention to skin cleansing and care
Keeping your skin clean is essential for people with diabetes. Clean your skin with warm water every day and avoid using harsh cleaning products. After bathing, apply moisturizing skin care products in time to lock in moisture in the skin and prevent dryness. Especially in dry seasons, moisturizing measures should be strengthened.
Preventing Trauma
Diabetic patients should be extra careful to avoid skin trauma. Wear appropriate protective equipment, such as gloves and knee pads, when performing daily activities or labor. Be careful not to cut the skin when trimming nails, and avoid excessive friction and squeezing of the skin.