Recognizing Diabetes Through Skin Changes: 6 Key Signs

Diabetes can often be identified through noticeable changes in the skin. If you observe any of the following signs, you should seek medical advice, as these could indicate diabetes.

1. Skin Lesions

Skin lesions appear as reddish-brown, round patches and are medically referred to as diabetic dermopathy. This condition can affect both men and women but is twice as common in men. These lesions are typically found on the shins, arms, or thighs.

One of the most common skin-related symptoms of diabetes is itching, particularly on the lower legs. Studies suggest that young individuals are more prone to this symptom, although the exact cause remains unknown.

Acanthosis nigricans refers to thickened, darkened patches of skin. These typically occur in areas such as the armpits, groin, neck, and under the elbows. This is a common sign among diabetic patients, especially those who are obese.

The underlying cause is the excessive insulin in the blood, which activates skin cell receptors, leading to abnormal epidermal growth.

In some diabetic individuals, certain skin areas, especially the fingers or interphalangeal joints, may become thickened and hardened. In some cases, this stiffness can spread to the forearms and back.

Skin hardening is typically painless and does not cause skin atrophy or swelling. Research indicates that this condition is more prevalent in individuals with type 1 diabetes and is linked to the glycosylation of collagen.

Blisters may suddenly appear on the hands, fingers, toes, or feet without pain or itching. These painless blisters are often associated with advanced diabetes. If such symptoms arise, seeking medical attention immediately is crucial.

Approximately 20-50% of individuals with type 2 diabetes experience skin infections. Poor blood sugar control can lead to phagocyte dysfunction and impaired white blood cell adhesion, slowing the body's immune response.