Diabetes is a serious chronic disease that lasts a lifetime. The disease causes high blood sugar, whether it is the first type of the disease or the second most common type.
While the main symptoms usually include extreme thirst and an increased need to urinate, there can also be overt signs that appear on the skin.
There are two types of diabetes, the main difference is that the first type is a genetic disease, while the second type is mainly related to lifestyle. But both are dangerous and can lead to serious health complications.
According to one study, skin complications are often the first visible sign of diabetes.
With that in mind, it’s important to know how the disease can manifest in your skin.
Pharmacist Bruce Green said that the skin of people with diabetes can look like skin that has aged prematurely.
He continued, “The process of skin change is glia. This is the process in which proteins and sugars bind to advanced glycation end products (compounds naturally produced in the body as a result of the chemical interaction of sugars with proteins). It negatively affects the elasticity of the skin when collagen and elastin are strengthened.
He explained that skin problems are more likely in diabetics due to poor circulation and decreased nerve sensitivity.
In addition, Bruce said there are six major warning signs to be aware of.
Skin signs to look out for:
Yellow or brown spots or bumps
Dark, velvety areas often around the neck and underarms
Thick patches of skin on fingers and toes
Sudden appearance of blisters
The cavities on the skin are barely visible
– The appearance of very dry and itchy patches on the skin, especially on the hands
However, these are not the only symptoms to watch out for, as the NHS recommends that you see a doctor if you feel very thirsty or urinate more than usual, especially at night.
Feeling very tired, weight loss, frequent bouts of thrush and blurred vision are also warning signs of diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes can develop rapidly over weeks or even days. Many people have type 2 diabetes for years without even knowing it, because the early symptoms tend to be general or not at all.
The life-threatening condition is often caused by poor lifestyle habits such as eating too much unhealthy food or not exercising.
Source: Sun
