Skin changes from diabetes

Overview

Shin spots are harmless. Foot sores need prompt care.

Diabetic dermopathy causes light brown, scaly spots on the shins.

High blood sugar also makes skin infections and dry skin more common.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Skin changes with diabetes

Less common

• Brown shin spots
• Dry, itchy skin

Look up a symptom: Cuts or sores that heal slowly · Dark spots or patches on the skin · Dark, velvety skin in body folds

When to get medical care

Causes

High blood sugar.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Diabetes

Possible complications

• Diabetic foot ulcer
• Acanthosis nigricans

Diagnosis

A clinician checks your skin and feet.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• A1C:

Treatment

Care for your skin.

Self-care

• Moisturize daily, not between toes
• Check feet daily
• Control blood sugar

Prevention

To protect skin:

• Blood sugar control

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an endocrinologist (hormone doctor).

Living with it

• Check your blood sugar as your care team advises.
• Check your feet every day for cuts or sores.
• Wear a medical ID and carry a fast sugar, like glucose tabs.
• Get a yearly eye exam and kidney test.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

• American Diabetes Association: Help line 1-800-342-2383, education, and local programs.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Long-term diabetes: More skin changes.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• This condition needs closer checkups during pregnancy. Plan ahead with your doctor.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Manageable.

Most skin changes improve with good blood sugar control.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Is my A1C in a good range?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Skin changes from diabetes