Diabetes is defined as a constantly changing condition in which blood sugar becomes too high.
There are two types of diabetes – type 1 and type 2. Although it is not known what causes type 1, type 2 is often associated with being overweight or lethargic, although genetics may play a role.
Both types mean that patients will need to adjust their lifestyle by following certain diets, taking medication and getting regular checkups to stay healthy.
As with any disease, the sooner symptoms of diabetes are detected, the sooner appropriate treatment can be sought.
However, there are lesser known symptoms that can show up on the skin.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, diabetic dermopathy is a potential complication of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
The spots most often appear on the shins, although they can be found on any part of the body. They can be pink, red or brown.
The clinic explains: “Diabetes-related dermopathy (often referred to as ‘leg patches’) is a fairly common skin condition that affects people with diabetes, including type 1 and type 2 diabetes. or brown spots on the skin. They may look like scars and have indentations. They are usually 1 to 2.5 cm in size. The spots are harmless, do not itch, do not exude fluid, and do not cause pain.”
Other distinguishing features of the spots include:
Round or oval.
Slightly reddened on your skin and/or somewhat scaly.
Bilateral, meaning they appear on the skin of your legs or arms at the same time.
It is not known exactly what causes diabetic dermopathy, but researchers believe it may be caused by previous skin trauma.
This may be due to injury or severe overheating from the cold, especially in people with neuropathy, a type of nerve damage caused by chronically high blood sugar.
It is also more common in the elderly and in those who have been diabetic for a long time.
Source: Express
