There are many reasons that could be causing your calves and shins to itch. The best management of diabetes includes addressing lifestyle factors and making behavior changes. These lesions or patches dont break open or release fluids. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC, an Internet Brands company. Get your blood sugar under control, because that can help treat this condition. The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. China, 2009:481-4. Diabetes can make existing skin problems worse. Kristen Gasnick, PT, DPT, is a medical writer and a physical therapist at Holy Name Medical Center in New Jersey. Skin Conditions - Skin Dehydration and Atherosclerosis - Diabetes Sides of feet. About 30% of people with vitiligo have a family history of the condition, and it is more common in people with Type 1 diabetes than Type 2 diabetes. We avoid using tertiary references. Necrobiosis lipoidica: If youve had diabetes for a long time without good control of your blood sugar, you could develop this condition. Diabetic Skin Conditions: Rash, Blisters & More - Diabetes Self-Management In some cases, this can lead to severe complications. Necorbiosis lipodica is harmless, but it can lead to complications. But most are easily treated with management of blood glucose levels. If diabetes has been poorly controlled for years, it can feel like you have pebbles in your fingertips. Taking medications: To best manage your diabetes, its important to take diabetes medications as prescribed. Tell your doctor about the blisters. They may include: Dry, cracked skin. This condition is linked with many complications, both microvascular and macrovascular. One skin symptom that can appear with diabetes is NLD. Due to poor blood flow and nerve damage if the skin on your foot becomes damaged it may develop into an ulcer which may take a long time to heal and has a high risk for infection.. Nail infections: A fungal infection in the toenails, such as onychomycosis, may cause your toenails to be discolored, thickened, or cracked. If you continue to have dry skin after you gain better control of your diabetes, a dermatologist can help. Dermatologists treat diabetics who develop slow or non-healing wounds and other complications with their skin. Discharge of fluid or pus. This skin condition causes bumps and patches that may be skin-colored, red, pink, or bluish purple. See a dermatologist about your skin. With vitiligo, the cells that make the substance that gives your skin color, melanin, are destroyed. Changes in your skin may signal changes on the inside of your body. It is not harmful but can be a symptom of more serious complications. Schmieder SJ, et al. Patients waving a reader device over it to see the current blood sugar level and changes. These dermatologists' tips tell you how to protect your skin. These bumps appear suddenly and clear promptly when diabetes is well-controlled. Diabetic Skin Conditions - Forefront Dermatology Find out what can help. New research finds that previous studies may have underestimated how effective the Mediterranean diet is for lowering your risk of type 2 diabetes. George SMC, Walton S. Diabetic dermopathy. Diabetic dermopathy: Also called shin spots, this skin condition develops as a result of changes to the blood vessels that supply the skin. NLD also features light brown oval or circular patches, but the lesions are deeper, larger, and fewer than in diabetic dermopathy. Unlike pimples, they soon develop a yellowish color. If you want to diminish a noticeable scar, know these 10 things before having laser treatment. Patches of skin look discolored. (2012). In people with diabetes, bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens develop more easily and become harder to remove. M. Oppenheim first diagnosed the condition as dermatitis atrophicans lipoidica diabetic, as it was only observed in conjunction with diabetes patients. Long, rough toenails can irritate your skin. Diabetes - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic Controlling diabetes can clear the scaly patches. If you have new round, brown patches on your skin and havent been diagnosed with diabetes, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible. These include: If you havent been diagnosed with diabetes and your doctor concludes your skin lesions may be caused by diabetic dermopathy, they may order further tests. You can expect permanent results in all but one area. Natalie tried many acne products without success. For patients suffering from diabetic skin conditions, keeping their diabetes under control is the most important factor in preventing the development and worsening of skin-related diabetes complications.Maintaining control over blood glucose levels, using proper diabetic skin care, and staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water can help reduce the risk . See additional information. Jock itch and vaginal infection: Yeast infections are due to an overgrowth of naturally occurring yeast. Diabetic Feet: Issues, Treatment, and Prevention - Healthline Recognizing when you need to make changes in your lifestyle habits can help you reach your blood glucose goals. When legions are multiple and bilateral, they may either be painless due to cutaneous nerve damage, which is often the case, or they can be extremely painful. Skin problems may be the first visible signs of diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA). Erin Davis, MS, RDN, CDCES, is a freelance medical writer and consultant who has over 15 years of clinical and community experience as a dietitian and diabetes educator. Alzheimer's disease. The legs are the most commonly affected site for NLD, but other body parts such as the face, abdomen, and scalp have been reported as affected areas. The prevalence of NLD in patients with diabetes has been reported at different figures by researchers, but is generally regarded as being below 2%. If you develop ulcers, seek medical advice as soon as possible. Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 03/28/2022. Atopic dermatitis on the chest. The hallmark of diabetic dermopathy is the appearance of light brown, scaly patches of skin, often on the shins. A group of boils that are close together is called a carbuncle. Research has also been conducted investigating the effects of smoking in relation to NLD, with WF Kelly et al reporting that smoking was prevalent in diabetic patients with NLD. Brady MF, Rawla P. Acanthosis Nigricans. Signs of diabetes can show up on the skin. The type of skin condition you have will determine the treatment. Keeping your diabetes under control can reduce your chances of developing this condition. Dr. Siegel adds that NLD usually doesnt cause problems unless there are significant ulcers, adding that wraps of topical treatment with steroids can sometimes be of value.. These spots may develop into open sores which can be slow to heal. It's rare, but it can affect people with type 2 diabetes. Diabetic dermopathy is harmless and does not require any treatment. Theyre harmless, and medications are available for treatment. They affect about 25% of the general population, but they can also be a sign of high blood sugar levels in people with diabetes . Policy. Vitiligo. Also called shin spots, the lesions are not accompanied by other symptoms and do not cause pain. They can look like scars and be indented. Find out how a board-certified dermatologist helped Natalie see clear skin before her wedding. It is not always possible to avoid diabetes, but some lifestyle habits may have an impact, including: Lifestyle changes that may help with type 2 diabetes-related skin problems include: Each person is different, so make sure to consult your doctor before changing your diet or exercise program. They may want to examine your skin to make sure you dont have a serious condition. This condition is linked with many complications, both microvascular and macrovascular. The medical name is diabetic dermopathy. As it progresses, these bumps turn into patches of swollen and hard skin. Diabetic dermopathy occurs in up to 55% of patients with diabetes and is more likely to occur in people who have other complications related to damaged small blood vessels, such as retinopathy (eye problems), nephropathy (kidney issues), and neuropathy (nerve problems). They can form anywhere though. Often causing darker skin in the creases of the neck, AN may be the first sign that someone has diabetes. Tingling. Scleredema diabeticorum: This condition causes a thickening of the skin on the back of the neck and upper back. Signs of feet issues include: swelling in your legs or feet tingling, pins and needles sensation in your feet loss of feeling in your feet or legs numbness in your toes sores that don't heal. You may also need physical therapy. However, with NLD the spots are typically larger, deeper, and red. Diabetes-related nephropathy (damage to your. Researchers dont yet know the exact cause of diabetes-related dermopathy. Adverse Skin Reactions to Metformin - European Medical Journal Dermatologists team up to improve patient care, JAK inhibitors: A newer type of medication, Free materials to help raise skin cancer awareness, Dermatologist-approved lesson plans, activities you can use. They usually occur in people who have diabetic neuropathy and tend to appear on the: They usually heal in around 3 weeks and do not tend to leave scars. Is there a link, and what can you do to get rid of them? Diabetes can make your skin more susceptible to infections such as boils. In time, ulcers can form for example, if the skin breaks. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved, Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. No matter what, its essential to do your best to manage your diabetes well in order to be healthy and prevent complications. Diabetic dermopathy can be an early symptom of diabetes. It can also develop on the upper back, shoulders, and neck. The exact cause of diabetic dermopathy is unknown. Here are a few management tips: While theres no specific treatment for diabetic dermopathy, managing your diabetes is still important to prevent diabetes-related complications. Treatment involves management of glucose levels, and physical therapy to gain mobility of the joints. Martn-Pelez S, Fito M, Castaner O. Mediterranean Diet Effects on Type 2 Diabetes Prevention, Disease Progression, and Related Mechanisms. Its important to let your health care provider know if you notice anything unusual. It looks like a small wart. Theres no treatment for diabetes-related dermopathy, but makeup and moisturizer can help with its appearance. Macrovascular complications refer to damage in the larger blood vessels, like the arteries that move blood away from the heart. The fingers can become stiff and difficult to move. Athletes foot: Not limited to athletes, this fungal infection may cause cracks, itchiness, and flaky skin between the toes and on bottom of the feet. Even though diabetes-related dermatology may have an unpleasant appearance, the condition itself doesnt harm your health. Granuloma annulare is associated with both diabetes and hyperlipidemia, or high levels of fat in the blood. If youve been diagnosed with diabetes, you may need better control of it. This skin condition causes spots (and sometimes lines) that create a barely noticeable depression in the skin. Diabetic dermopathy is often associated with nerve and blood vessel damage that can cause more serious problems, such as peripheral neuropathy, diabetic ketoacidosis, frequent infections, kidney disease, eye problems, and arthropathies (joint diseases). Use these professionally produced online infographics, posters, and videos to help others find and prevent skin cancer. Skin Problems Related to Diabetes - Skinsight American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee, Draznin B, Aroda VR, Bakris G, Benson G, Brown FM, Freeman R, Green J, Huang E, Isaacs D, Kahan S, Leon J, Lyons SK, Peters AL, Prahalad P, Reusch JEB, Young-Hyman D. 7. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2003. When the immune system doesnt work properly, small issues can grow into larger ones. Heres what to look for, and how to treat each. Learn how to prevent skin infections if you have diabetes. Currently, theres no known way to prevent diabetic dermopathy resulting from diabetes. If you already have diabetes and are experiencing signs of diabetes-related dermopathy, be sure to see your healthcare provider. Compression therapy may help in some cases. People also tend to get this infection on the corners of their mouth. Lesions of diabetic dermopathy are typically less than 1 centimeter in length and usually begin as flat, scaly areas of thickened collagen that are red or purple. Pictures of type 2 diabetes-related skin problems Symptoms to watch for Up to 97 percent of people with diabetes will experience a related skin condition, according to a 2016 literature review . People with diabetes are also more prone to bacterial and viral infections such as Candida albicans. For example, it can damage blood vessels, leave you more prone to infections, and slow down wound healing. This condition is fairly common and is basically a darkening of the skin at particular points on the body, where the skin folds. Some skin conditions that diabetes can cause stem from bacterial or fungal infections. Sometimes, the thickening skin spreads to the face, shoulders, and chest. Skin and mouth conditions. Available from: Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists, Kolb L. An Effective Model of Diabetes Care and Education: The ADCES7 Self-Care Behaviors. Diabetic dermopathy can also stay on the skin indefinitely. This happens when the bodys water is used to flush out the extra glucose, instead of being used to keep the skin hydrated. Types of bacterial skin infections include: The symptoms may be more severe in people with persistently high blood sugar levels. Diabetic dermopathy: A subtle sign with grave implications. J Am Acad Dermatol. Common symptoms of diabetes that may aid in the diagnosis of diabetic dermopathy include: Because diabetic dermopathy is an asymptomatic and benign condition, it requires no treatment. See what it takes to become board certified. In those with DD, scaly brown patches may develop on the front of the legs. Diminished ability to sense hot or cold. 2,3 CASE REPORT The skin is itchy and painful Affected areas usually include the neck, armpits, and groin. They often happen in people who have severe diabetes and diabetic neuropathy. Lotion can help to keep your skin soft and moist, and prevent itching due to dry skin. These lesions are harmless and dont cause any pain, but they shouldnt be ignored. Dermopathy appears as a shiny round or oval lesion on the thin skin of your shins. Kristen Gasnick, PT, DPT, is a medical writer and a physical therapist at Holy Name Medical Center in New Jersey. Hyperglycemia, or high blood glucose levels, can happen with uncontrolled diabetes. This image displays slow-healing skin lesions and ulcers due to simple trauma typical of diabetic dermopathy. Long-standing patches may become faintly indented (atrophic). Microvascular complications are related to the very small blood . Other possible theories for causes of NLD include trauma and inflammatory and metabolic changes. It usually forms on the shins. As displayed in this image, the skin lesions of diabetic dermopathy can appear as scaly, colored, slightly elevated lesions. If you notice any kind of significant change to your skin, especially color changes, its important to contact your healthcare provider. McKinley-Grant L, Warnick M, et al. Keeping your skin moisturized with lotion or natural oils can help improve the elasticity and appearance of your skin and the decreased dryness of patches. Initially, red-brown patches between 1-3mm develop over months or years, but these can increase in size and become progressively yellow and shiny. Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. This image displays a close-up of diabetic dermopathy showing scarring. Type 2 diabetes and its impact on the immune system. They often appear on the chest and stomach. Most skin irritations specific to people with type 2 diabetes are related to changes in the small blood vessels, which supply nutrition to the skin tissues. The following are infections that people with diabetes may experience: Boils: A boil is a pus-filled bump on the skin similar to a large, painful pimple. Diabetes Technology: Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes-2022. The patches are harmless and dont itch, ooze liquid or cause pain. If you have a minor wound, treat it. Diabetic dermapathy. Tell your doctor about the thickening skin. White blood cells become less able to defend you against infections. Keeping skin moisturized and trying to avoid any injury to the legs should help prevent the development of some lesions. References In some cases, creams may help lighten the affected areas. When legions appear on the face, scalp or upper arms, NLD is less likely to be correctly diagnosed. In: Feingold KR, Anawalt B, Boyce A, et al., editors. Skin tags are soft, skin-colored growths that hang from the skin. Get useful, helpful and relevant health + wellness information. A rash of several spots usually appears as raised patches that are shiny red-brown in colour. Theyll then examine the size, color, shape and location of your spots to determine if it could be diabetes-related dermopathy. The key is to catch them early. The following OTC remedies can help manage certain skin conditions associated with type 2 diabetes: In some cases, a doctor will prescribe medications or other treatments such as: Some conditions may benefit from specific treatments. The material on this site is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by a qualified health care provider. However, it may result from damage to the nerves of the skin and damage to the small blood vessels that supply oxygen to the tissues. These include the folds of the skin around the neck, groin, and armpits. Acanthosis nigricans is a fairly common skin pigmentation disorder, usually notable for dark patches of skin with a thick, velvety texture. Br J Diabetes Vasc Dis. You can see blood vessels Many people with diabetes have skin-related complications. Timshina DK, et al. The medical name for this condition is xanthelasma. Hot, swollen skin that is painful Managing blood glucose levels can help treat and reduce the risk of diabetes-related skin conditions. Sometimes, its called diabetic bullae. Doctors dont know precisely why NLD occurs, but it may result from a breakdown in collagen. Theres no known treatment for diabetes-related dermopathy, but the good news is that the skin patches themselves are harmless. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. How to Manage Type 2 Diabetes With Hyperglycemia, How Digital Sclerosis Affects People with Diabetes, Common Signs Metformin Is Not Working and What to Do, A clinical study of dermatoses in diabetes to establish its markers, Elevated fasting blood glucose of 126 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or higher, Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, Monitoring your blood sugar and administering, Regularly taking your medication as prescribed by your doctor, Managing your diet by reducing the amount of sugar and refined carbohydrates you eat while consuming more foods that can help lower blood sugar, Exercising for a minimum of 30 minutes at least three times a week to increase uptake of sugar from the blood into the muscles, Losing weight to decrease the severity of diabetes. Medications: In some cases, youll need more than an OTC treatment. Diabetes may leave you more prone to skin problems, including bacterial and fungal infections. The outlook will depend on the skin condition. Acanthosis Nigricans: Treatment, Pictures, and Causes - Healthline If you notice any of the following warning signs on your skin, its time to talk with your doctor. Diabetes and Dry Skin: 6 Tips for Diabetics Battling Dry Skin - WebMD There are several types of granuloma annulare, including localized (in one area) or disseminated (general, more widespread). Find support, ask questions and share your experiences. These bumps may appear red or red-brown on lighter skin tones or pink or purplish on darker skin tones, or they may be the same color as your skin. Brown, scar-like, slightly elevated lesions on the legs are typical in long-standing diabetics. Acanthosis Nigricans is thought to be a visual manifestation of insulin resistance. This could mean that: You have undiagnosed diabetes, or pre-diabetes, Your treatment for diabetes needs to be adjusted. High blood pressure. Over time, the clusters of spots may look like age spots. Naik PP, et al. See how one patient learned to manage her weight and diet. Its more likely to occur in people with type 1 diabetes. If these ulcers persist, you may need to . There are a few different skin conditions linked with diabetes. The appearance of diabetic dermopathy can vary from person to person. Most lesions are found on the lower parts of the legs and can turn into an ulcer if theres trauma. Diabetic blisters are rare, but there are steps you can take to treat and prevent them. Many people have skin tagsskin growths that hang from a stalk. Changes in the small blood vessels can impact the eyes and kidneys. O Cohen et al reported that NLD is usually associated with poor glycemic control, and that improved management of blood glucose levels could improve or prevent the disorder. Acanthosis nigricans. The rash can be red, red-brown, or skin-colored. Why Are My Calves Itchy Even Though I Dont Have a Rash? High blood sugar can increase the risk of developing digital sclerosis. Tell your doctor about your extremely dry skin. If you have diabetes, watch for the following skin symptoms: Dry skin: If you have abnormally dry skin, you may have a condition called xerosis. If your diabetic dermopathy produces dry, scaly patches, applying moisturizer may help. Rarely, people with diabetes may develop blisters that look like burns, known as bullosis diabeticorum. Diabetes and Foot Infection: What Is the Relationship, Risks and Complications of Type 2 Diabetes in Men, How Diabetic Neuropathy Is Diagnosed and Treated. Poor circulation may also cause itchiness in the skin. Diabetes has several well-known symptoms, but there are also some unusual symptoms you might not know about. As NLD occurs in patients without diabetes the first case of this was in 1935 it can be referred to as necrobiosis lipoidica. Youll usually find these bumps on the buttocks, thighs, crooks of the elbows, or backs of the knees. The spots are often brown and cause no symptoms. Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Yellow, reddish, or brown patches on your skin. [Updated 2022 Oct 9]. Getting better control of your diabetes can bring relief. Moisturizing may also help improve the appearance of spots. What it looks like: Measles causes flat, red spots that cover huge swaths of skin. Can Intermittent Fasting Decrease Your Type 2 Diabetes Risk? This is especially true on the feet. If the sores do break open, see your doctor. Hyperglycemia may lead to dry skin because of a fluid imbalance. Granuloma annulare (gran-u-LOW-muh an-u-LAR-e) is a skin condition that causes a raised rash or bumps in a ring pattern. (2022). This condition has been associated with diabetic retinopathy (eye damage), diabetic nephropathy (kidney damage), and diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage). NHS approved education and behaviour change app for people with type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, obesity. When the thickening skin develops on a finger, toe, or other area with joints, physical therapy can help you keep your ability to bend and straighten the joint. All rights reserved. How to prevent diabetic skin conditions "Controlling your blood glucose is the first step in preventing and treating diabetes skin problems," stated Dr. Grace. Talk with your doctor about how to better control your diabetes. Skin manifestations of diabetes mellitus. Symptom checkers like Aysa can help narrow down possible skin conditions by analyzing a skin photo. You may develop one lesion or clusters of lesions on the shin and other parts of your body. A clinical study of dermatoses in diabetes to establish its markers.